Heather's Truth

Cypress Security #5

by Regan Black

If still waters run deep, her cheerful smile hides an ocean of secrets…

Growing up in small-town South Carolina, Heather Morris knows a bright smile can be an effective shield, especially during her shifts at the local coffee shop. And hiding her true suspicions is essential when she stumbles across an ugly criminal enterprise.

But she can’t exact justice alone. Fortunately, she knows an FBI agent who just might help.

Special Agent Dale Nichols is ruthless about closing cases. And when Heather--of all people--drops a corruption case on his desk, he’s sure she’s misinterpreted something. Digging in, he soon learns she’s right. What’s worse? The criminals have learned she’s the whistleblower.

To protect her, and hide the real reason he’s suddenly hanging around, he proposes, wedging himself between her and the operation that wants her dead.

As Dale and Heather scramble to find justice, will it be the killers hunting them or the fake engagement that destroys their chance for a future?

Genres: Romantic Suspense

165 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 24, 2024

About the author

Regan Black, a USA Today bestselling author, writes award-winning, action-packed romantic novels featuring kick-butt heroines and the sexy heroes who fall in love with them. She and her husband currently enjoy the empty-nest life in the South Carolina Lowcountry where the rich blend of legend, romance, and history fuels her imagination.

Get a free read: http://reganblack.com/perks
All books: https://www.reganblack.com/all-books/
Amazon: http://bit.ly/2eYabBI

Reviews

[Voracious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you happen to have acquired some rare 'me' time and want to indulge in a very good romantic suspense story, I highly recommend Heather's Truth! I loved this book! Regan Black did an excellent job of grabbing my attention and keeping me engrossed in this book. I found the story to be well written with an excellent plot. No filler space is to be found in this one. Each stage of this story served a purpose by giving insight into the characters, moving the story forward, or giving credence to their blossoming romance. There was plenty of suspense, excitement, and a dose of fade to black romantic moments as well as, at least for me, a satisfactory ending. Unlike many other romance novels, this author clearly showed them falling in love.

I cannot recall how I first became aware of Regan Black but this is the second of her books I have enjoyed and I will definitely being reading more of them.

I was very fortunate to acquire an ARC for which I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Diana Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a strong female protagonist and a man that wasn't afraid to listen to her and value her expertise! Even though he was conflicted about letting a civilian take part in the operation of bringing down the bad guys, Dale was forced to let Heather take more of a role than he really wanted. I was glad to see the happy ending for the story, but I had conjured up all kinds of stuff about the directions their careers would take them that didn't end up happening!! There wasn't very much interaction with Cypress Security folks in this story but their involvement was important.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[JigsawGirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admired Heather's intelligence, resourcefulness, and talent from the beginning. I wasn't so thrilled with her personality. It took me quite a while to warm up to her. Dale was an interesting character. He kept beating himself up about exposing Heather. I thought she was exhibiting some slightly reckless behaviour. There was still something quirky yet endearing about them being together.

Tbh, I am really going to have to go back and read the first 3 books in this series. I would say it was a standalone if I didn't feel like I was missing something. There were times that it seemed as if I walked into the middle of an existing story.

The part of the book from the hotel to the endearing scene at the end of the book had me wondering how Dale and Heather were going to make their HEA a reality. It was a sweet ending that made me want to see what was next in their lives.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

What's not to love,

This one has dogs in it. And i'm a dog lover.
Only this time there's a crime ring going on that has to be taken down. And it cannot go down fast enough.

Heather a waitress,
Dale an f. b.I. agent.
What a pair they make.
Undercover to do the job like no one else.
The way they handled this was phenomenal.

Sometimes pretending to be something you're not works out for everyone..
But most importantly, the dogs are what's important in this story..
What a wonderful story this one was.

I will say this has been my favorite book in the series..

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked that this book that deals with what happens in today's time as well. When heather gets involved to discover who's behind the dog fighting rings, she gets herself in trouble and decides to send a message to Dale and FBI agent she's met once. He doesn't know what to think about her message and may have exposed her. Get ready for the danger and unexpected romance that happens. HEA.

[Deb Compton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing, loved the storyline, excellent characters. Absolutely loved the ending. Great story, definitely don’t miss out on this one

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review. Heather’s Truth is the 5th book in Regan Black’s Cypress Security series. Like the previous one, Hannah’s Truth, Cypress Security plays a very small part in the story. However it is another phenomenal book that touches my heart in a big way. Dale and Heather( and Daisy) were meant for each other. I wasn’t ready for their story to end so I daydreamed their becoming part of Cypress Security so I can keep tabs on them through future books😂 it’s definitely a must read book.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so realistic that I was outraged right along with the main characters at the outrageous criminal actions of the villains. I wanted Heather and Dale to succeed in stopping their crimes and I really wanted them to really get together as a couple. The characters were dynamic, the plot was fast paced and original with a few twists that had my head spinning, and I loved the recurring characters from Cypress who helped FBI agent Dale in his quest for justice. The crimes were tough to read about and so heartbreaking, but I couldn’t drag my eyes away from the page to find out how the criminals would ultimately be caught. I really liked Dale’s honesty and vulnerability and Heather’s sense of humor and fair play. I also liked the protectiveness of Heather’s family and her brother’s righteous indignation at her choices in life. The book had humor and was filled with suspense as the story is masterfully woven around a reluctant but cleverly diabolical heroine.I loved every minute I spent with Heather and Dale and highly recommend this quick read that has a little steam for those who need that in their romances. This is the fifth book in the Cypress Security Series and all are enjoyable and compelling reads, but each book may be read as a standalone. Just get started with this series and you won’t be able to put the books down!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book by Ms. Black. I will say this book is one that touched on a subject that bothers me very much. Dog rings. Hurting dogs.
Now hers my thought about the book. A serious situation gets Heather going to the FBI to see Special Agent Dale Nichols with concerns about a dog ring. Dale gets very protective of Heather during the case. They come come with a cover, and need to sell it. They needed to find who was behind these horrific things. The only thing is now they have come to the shelter where some of the dogs are.

So much more to come.
What happens between Dale and Heather? What becomes of the dog rings? You will just have to wait and see what happens.

But the ending wow just wow.

[Melissa May · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather’s truth by Regan Black is the 5th book in The Cypress security series but it’s a standalone no cliffhangers.
When Heather Morris discovers there is a dog ring in her town she wants to do something about it and sends the evidence she has to FBI agent Dale Nichols and much to her surprise he suddenly shows up and wants them to act like a couple so he can investigate.
Then bad things start to happen and puts Heather in danger…
I loved this book! Suspenseful and the plot with the dog rings is intriguing. It’s not something you read about often in books so I really liked the different trope.
Loved the romance!
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
I received this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.

[A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Heather’s Truth. It was the perfect blend of small town romance and suspense. Heather has found out about a seedy criminal enterprise in her small town. She takes the evidence to FBI agent Dale. As they uncover the truth their engagement cover becomes real. The plot was good and suspenseful. I couldn’t put the book down. I can’t wait for more stores in the Cypress Creek Security series!

[Arlene M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Special Agent Dale Nichol’s works for The FBI.
Heather Morris works in the Midnight Rooster diner in Haleswood SC.
Anthony Lester was involved in illegal actions.

Heather and Dale met over a supposedly a case involving National Parks and dogfighting rings.
There is an attraction and chemistry between them.
Can they play a hand in resolving this issue and have a Happily Ever After?

This book has intrigue,danger, romance and a chance at love.

Great Job Regan Black !!!!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Different isn't broken"

It takes some time for Dale to understand that Heather really does mean those words, having returned from combat injured, to then lose his career, his fiance and his mobility, he thinks he is destined to be alone, unworthy of love. He is so wrong, and whilst Heather may be young, she has an old soul and she knows a good man when she sees one. She also knows she cannot "fix" him, she has to tell him he is worthy, show him how she feels and walk away - so strong, but also so right. Dale has to believe in himself before in can believe in them, he has to accept his own feelings before he can accept hers.
Their case is heartbreaking and the corruption just makes it worse, but it also makes it more dangerous as it means they can no longer fly under the radar....they have become the hunted.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.

[Valeri Sullivan (vsulvn29) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let’s go, Special Agent Fiancé

As an animal lover, this one was hard for me. I can read about murder and mayhem but my heart breaks simply mentioning animal abuse and dog fighting. That said, this was another captivating story from author Regan Black. And our heroine got to kick some bad guy behind so that made it even more satisfying!

[Flo Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strong and loving connection

Heather had to be strong to withstand what she had to do to help find the criminals using dogs for illegal fighting. With TH I Agent Dale with her and helping in the investigation they had a strong conviction in their side. While spending time and working together it was inevitable that they would fall in love and find their happily ever after.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Heather, who works at an animal shelter and for the DNR, discovers a dog fighting ring in the area, she brings the information to Special Agent Dale Nichols. He initially thinks that she is mistaken, but when he realizes she has indeed found corruption, now the criminals know that she is the whistle blower. He comes up with a fake engagement to throw the criminals off and to keep her safe. But the closer they get to gathering enough information to prosecute, the closer they are also getting to each other. Will they be able to stop the criminals and are these feelings for each other real?

This is the 5th book in the Cypress Security Series. It has great characters and an interesting plot with plenty of suspense with romance thrown in. A great book!

[Karon Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather doesn't feel as if she's respected by her family and when she discovers some possible illegal activities she goes to FBI agent Dale. He's attracted to her, but broken and doesn't feel worth of Heather. But surprisingly, these two see each other, more than those around them. It may have started as a pretend relationship, but these two fall in love while solving their mystery. The author does a great job of weaving both suspense and romance, leaving the reader eagerly turning the pages to find out how both will end. I loved how Dale redeemed himself and we got a great HEA.

[Heather Wray · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intelligent woman who is adamant she will dance to her own tune, pairs up with a stiff FBI agent who thinks he’s broken to take down a villain that’s convinced he’s untouchable.
I Loved this unlikely couple, that make each other whole, though it takes a bit for them both to realise it.

I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mitzi Neiderhiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather's Truth is part of Cyress Security series. There is a small presents from the previous characters, but definitely a stand alone story as well. This story continues the series with a focus on Heather trying to show her own personality and her independent investigations about community occurrences. She shares her findings with Special Agent Dale Nichols. Dale is trying to make a quick close to the case but inadvertently puts Heather in danger through his own investigations.

The story progresses with each of the characters trying to find their place. Heather making her own decisions and wanted to be treated like an adult. Dale trying to make penance for the past and correct his mistakes. The story keeps you involved and rooting for the happily ever after.

Dale and Heather's characters grow so much in this story through all the many steps. Heather turns out to show so much maturity and growth in the story. I wish there was a little more background on Heather's employment issues as to why she isn't interested in some of the job opportunities, but you can see yourself in her decisions. Dale's character grows and changes from the beginning of the story that you are forced to root for him as it goes. He becomes that man that Heather needs.

Regan deals with the issues of dog fighting in way that you understand what is happening without too much detail and word pictures. I would definitely recommend this book and the entire series for everyone.

I received an ARC copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the small town of Haleswood , South Carolina, Heather Morris, the youngest of her siblings, works as a waitress in the local coffee shop Rooster Diner. It is evident that this bright woman is hugely underestimated.
In one of her many jobs, she discovers that illegal activity in the form of dogfights, are occurring in the natural reserves around town. More heartbreaking to her, is that they are frequently using the dogs in the shelter in which she volunteers. Becoming a whistleblower , she sends FBI Special Agent Dale Nichols evidence of her suspicions.
When Dale realizes her investigations are real and that he might had put her in danger, he goes searching for her . From that point on, they work together under the guise of being engaged.
In the midst of it all, feelings develop but Dale has his reasons for keeping Heather at arms length.
The story was engaging from the first page to the last. The main characters are well developed and likable.
Ross Carpenter, owner of Cypress Security, makes a couple of cameo appearances, but otherwise, it’s another story about friends of the company, not the direct members of the company. All which have gotten their stories in previous books.
For this reader, this was one of the best in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5) Fast paced page turner. I was hooked at page one and carried through out. I appreciate Heathers tenacity, intelligence and humor. Surprisingly I had a hard time with Dale even with his back ground and his own self doubt. But he did make me want to reach through the book and shake him a time or two! Regan Black took the subject of dog fighting and did it with tact and sensitivity and brought to light one or two things I had not thought about. Entertaining - check, suspenseful - absolutely, romance - check, watch it build, see the give and take as they learn about each other. Cypress Security is called in to help and now Dale owes them one....again. Though Cypress was limited in this book I was ok with that. I did keep waiting for a more detailed explanation of Heathers past, work wise (not family) or I misinterpreted the way it was written, its purpose. The HEA was perfection! Humor, heartwarming and you just wanted to linger there. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review. I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions. #Heather'sTruth #CypressSecurity #ReganBlack #Bookfunnel

[Miki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh this was good . However i'm glad the animal cruelity is not described fully more behind the scene kind because just hearing about it had my little heart bleed for them so i liked Heather even more and daisy won me in matter of minute .
Heather is really intelligent but she also has a big heart so when she comes accross illegal traffiking and dogfighting she contact the FBi agent she knows: Dale hoping he will act quickly. She had no idea he would put her in danger but the way she reacts had me admiring her courage and how ressourceful she can be.

I like Dale, he sure is trying to do what matter and does not hide his errors but he is also hurt and hiding that....however when he realise Heather can be in danger he jump into action and he is talented. Not enjoying to see a civilian caught in that mess but able to see how qualified she is. He is hesitating to tell her how good at the job she is, not feeling superior and looking down at her on teh contrary he sees her as a perfect patner.

I loved their interaction and the little teasing, there is a lot of action and tension to have you on edge until teh last page

a perfect romance suspense!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series "HEATHER'S TRUTH" was an amazing interesting, intriguing, intense story full of danger, secrets, steam, fear, corruption, angst, fake engagement, whistleblower, twists that keeps you turning the pages.
Heather Morris works at a coffee shop in a small town in South Carolina she accidently finds out about criminal activity but she needs help getting justice so she goes to Special Agent Dale Nicolas who's ruthless at closes hard cases but when she tells him what's up he's worried about involving her in any way.
Heather could be in danger when the criminals learn that she's the whistleblower on their criminal activities to protect her he tells her his plan about a fake engagement so no one will wonder why their spending time together because this operation being exposed they'll want her dead.
I definitely recommend up get this on the edge of your seat read Heather & Dale working together to take down the criminals before they they come after Heather knowing she's the one who outed them, will they get their GEA, it's a must read you don't want to kiss.
EXCELLENT RIVITING INTENSE SUSPENSE FILLED ROMANCE I LOVED IT🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dog fighting ring has invaded her town and Heather Morris plans to take them down, with or without the help of the FBI! She sent the evidence that she had obtained to FBI Special Agent Dane Nichol, but hasn’t had a response from him. Therefore, she is surprised when Dane walks into the restaurant where she works and acts as if they are a couple. She realizes that he wants the town to believe that is why he is here, but she fears he is too late when the shelter is attacked and several dogs are missing. Dane feels terrible that his inaction has placed Heather in danger and now he sees no other way but for her to work with him to find and arrest those involved in this vicious crime against defenseless animals. When they are threatened, he will keep Heather safe, but once again he has underestimated her ability to take matters into her own hands! A complete rush of action with a touch of hot romance! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a page-turner that has non-stop action and riveting suspense. Heather is a small town girl who left home for college than came right back. She works as a waitress at the diner, works at a dog shelter, and for the Department of Natural Resources.

It is the latter two jobs that clue her into a major dogfighting ring. She writes to FBI Special Agent Dale Nichols who she met last year. Dale is a loner who only wants to sit at his desk and not become involved with anything or anyone. So he ignores Heather’s letter. When he finally chooses to get involved, he mistakenly “outs” Heather as the informant,

Heather and Dale pretend to be engaged in order to keep Heather safe. Instead, things became more dangerous for both of them,

Even though it takes a very long time for Dale to accept his feelings for Heather, readers will be able to see through his stoic stance. Plus, the intense and terrifying plot will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end of the story!

[Stacey K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather discovers something nefarious going on and reports it to Agent Dale Nichols. When Dale realizes his inquiries could put the target on Heather's back, he decides to approach her about a fake engagement. The twist and turns that come as these two try to figure out who's involved in the crimes and while trying to convince everyone of their love, will keep you glued to the pages. Heather and Dale along with the members of Cypress Security work hard to keep Heather safe and bring those to justice who are involved. Once you start reading you won't be able to put it down. I had to know what was going to happen next. I love this series and just when I think Regan Black can't bring us a better read, she does. This one is my favorite of the series.

I received an ARC copy of this book.

[Catlou · Rating 5 out of 5]

4++ Stars ⭐⭐⭐✨ HEATHER'S TRUTH is what eventually brings out the best in Dale Nichols, Mr. FBI. However, it’s a challenging and risky journey that will keep you thoroughly engaged from beginning to end. Dale's aim to take down the bad guys while also safeguarding Heather may seem daunting, and there are moments when it may appear nearly impossible. This is what makes it such a thrilling and at times gripping tale with its compelling characters, and a plot that will entertain you from start to finish. It’s a story filled with a few twists and turns, excitement, and passion that will keep you turning its pages, finding it hard to put down.

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great addition to this series. Between the suspense and danger, it had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. It also includes betrayal, humor, a fake engagement, and the horrors of dog fighting.

As the baby of the family, Heather has a hard getting her family to realize she can take care of herself and that she is in charge of her life. And in the beginning, even Special Agent Dale Nichols underestimates her. But as they spend time together, he learns there is so much more to her.

I loved how their relationship progressed, even as he had to work to keep her safe from dangerous criminals and they searched for the proof to put the criminal leaders away.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy of Heather's Truth . I think this suspense romance is sensational . It's entertaining and interesting and Suspenseful . Special Agent Dale Nichols made a mistake that put Heather Morris in danger when she gave him information on an illegal dog fighting ring . Dale decides a fake engagement is the answer so he can keep her safe and catch the bad guys . Dale soon finds out it's easier said than done especially when everything comes to ahead and feelings get involved . I highly recommend taking the time to read .

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it! Action packed, suspenseful and very romantic.

When Heather turns over evidence of a dog fighting ring to FBI special agent Dale, he does all he can to keep her safe while they investigate.

These characters were just so original and likeable. Heather was fiesty and wasn't making it easy on Dale, while he himself felt like he was a broken man with issues. But she made him whole.

Well written with such a stand out plot and characters that made the story. Very in depth and intense.

Highly recommended!!