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Czarne Wzgórza
W malowniczej Dakocie Południowej pośród gór i dzikich zwierząt, rozgrywa się akcja tej pięknej powieści. Wychowana na farmie Lil poznaje Coopa, nowojorskiego chłopca, będącego na wakacjach. Nigdy nie zapomną pierwszego uczucia, lecz gdy spotkają się po latach, będą już innymi ludźmi. Lil, obrończyni zwierząt, prowadzi rezerwat. Coop, detektyw, wraca na farmę dziadków, by zacząć nowe życie. Oboje nie zamierzają ulegać dawnym sentymentom. Tymczasem w rezerwacie zaczynają dziać się dziwne rzeczy: po serii niewyjaśnionych zabójstw ktoś zaczyna prześladować Lil... Tylko Nora Roberts potrafi tak połączyć romantyczną opowieść o miłości z suspensem.
496 pages, Hardcover
First published July 2, 2009
3095 people are currently reading
12927 people want to read
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,217 books60k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,179 reviews
April 15, 2019
[4.5🌟]
This wasn't a novel I was expecting to fall in love with but I did, and aren't novels like that the best kind of novels? Where the story creeps up on you and you realise how much you love it as you're reading it?
I won't give too much away since it is a story surrounded by mystery but it's set in South Dakota. It's about childhood sweethearts, Lil and Coop, who met on a farm when they were kids and then lost touch.
12 years later their story picks up again and they both have more or less accomplished what it is they wanted, grew up and changed but something brings them back together, intertwining their lives once again.
This was such an enriching and scenic story. It's true escapism. I loved being surrounded by nature and wildlife and the animals and Nora Roberts really went into a lot of detail which at first bored me. But after 50 pages the story completely enveloped me and I couldn't get enough of it. The pacing was dead right for me and I enjoyed reading the elements of Lil's job and her care in looking after animals, whilst following the story forward with the mystery, the development between Lil and Coop as well as the side characters. I felt like I was there and I truly got a feel for the characters and their lives and it was just beautiful to read and enjoyable to follow them on their respective journeys.
I liked that there was a balance between the suspense, the characters and their development, and the enriching wildlife of South Dakota. It just didn't feel contrived, rather the story felt wholesome and complete and real. It wasn't just about finding out about the murders, or Lil and Coop's love story. It was just about life, farm life, nature and animals and following your dreams, being surrounded by good family and friends and finding meaning and yourself within it all.
The story felt really authentic and I really appreciated how Nora Roberts brought that all to life. I enjoyed this immensely.
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First pick for the #TomeTopple readathon.
I went back to using my local library after years of not going to it and I'm so glad I've re-discovered it again. This is the first book I borrowed.
This wasn't a novel I was expecting to fall in love with but I did, and aren't novels like that the best kind of novels? Where the story creeps up on you and you realise how much you love it as you're reading it?
I won't give too much away since it is a story surrounded by mystery but it's set in South Dakota. It's about childhood sweethearts, Lil and Coop, who met on a farm when they were kids and then lost touch.
12 years later their story picks up again and they both have more or less accomplished what it is they wanted, grew up and changed but something brings them back together, intertwining their lives once again.
This was such an enriching and scenic story. It's true escapism. I loved being surrounded by nature and wildlife and the animals and Nora Roberts really went into a lot of detail which at first bored me. But after 50 pages the story completely enveloped me and I couldn't get enough of it. The pacing was dead right for me and I enjoyed reading the elements of Lil's job and her care in looking after animals, whilst following the story forward with the mystery, the development between Lil and Coop as well as the side characters. I felt like I was there and I truly got a feel for the characters and their lives and it was just beautiful to read and enjoyable to follow them on their respective journeys.
I liked that there was a balance between the suspense, the characters and their development, and the enriching wildlife of South Dakota. It just didn't feel contrived, rather the story felt wholesome and complete and real. It wasn't just about finding out about the murders, or Lil and Coop's love story. It was just about life, farm life, nature and animals and following your dreams, being surrounded by good family and friends and finding meaning and yourself within it all.
The story felt really authentic and I really appreciated how Nora Roberts brought that all to life. I enjoyed this immensely.
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First pick for the #TomeTopple readathon.
I went back to using my local library after years of not going to it and I'm so glad I've re-discovered it again. This is the first book I borrowed.
July 19, 2009
I liked:
The setting (South Dakota), the information (endangered animals, especially big cats), most of the characters (but not the hero).
I didn't like:
The plot (psychopathic killer stalks our heroine; shades of Montana Sky), the hero (my way or else, my way or else, my way or else; if that's his idea of love, no thanks), the heroine (for letting him have his way).
Roberts does her usual trademark workmanlike stuff, so the book is readable. However, the "love" story kept pissing me off so much that the suspense was diluted. And the secondary "love" story, while meant to be interesting for its socially progressive messages, was both skimmed over and almost undermined because of the man's attitude of sureness that he wanted this and so it would be.
I'm trying not to add spoilers but I didn't find much in this novel that would be surprising to anyone. I've always liked Roberts for the humor her characters displayed. I've been known to laugh out loud. But not this time. As I said, workmanlike, but certainly not one of her best. Overall, a disappointment.
Update June 2011: having forgotten I'd read it before, I tried to read it again. This time, I disliked it so much I put it down about a third of the way through an said, "ick." Changed the stars to two. Thinking about rating it one star. One of NR's biggest disappointments so far.
The setting (South Dakota), the information (endangered animals, especially big cats), most of the characters (but not the hero).
I didn't like:
The plot (psychopathic killer stalks our heroine; shades of Montana Sky), the hero (my way or else, my way or else, my way or else; if that's his idea of love, no thanks), the heroine (for letting him have his way).
Roberts does her usual trademark workmanlike stuff, so the book is readable. However, the "love" story kept pissing me off so much that the suspense was diluted. And the secondary "love" story, while meant to be interesting for its socially progressive messages, was both skimmed over and almost undermined because of the man's attitude of sureness that he wanted this and so it would be.
I'm trying not to add spoilers but I didn't find much in this novel that would be surprising to anyone. I've always liked Roberts for the humor her characters displayed. I've been known to laugh out loud. But not this time. As I said, workmanlike, but certainly not one of her best. Overall, a disappointment.
Update June 2011: having forgotten I'd read it before, I tried to read it again. This time, I disliked it so much I put it down about a third of the way through an said, "ick." Changed the stars to two. Thinking about rating it one star. One of NR's biggest disappointments so far.
July 5, 2023
My new favorite Nora Roberts book!! This one is a second chance romance and takes place at an animal sanctuary, which is basically everything I love. The hero and heroine met as kids when they would spend summers together while the hero visited their grandparents' farm. They fall in love over the years, but the hero leaves and breaks the heroine's heart. She opens the animal sanctuary she has dreamed of building her entire life and has a really successful operation going. Until someone starts sabotaging things around the sanctuary. The hero is back in town after his grandfather is in an accident, and he's determined to help the heroine find out what's happening. That means there's plenty of forced proximity amidst the romantic suspense. I had so much! I loved the second chance aspect, especially because they seemed to want to be anywhere but around each other when they were reunited. The suspense was so good and I had fun seeing how they were going to beat the bad guy. I can't wait to read some more from Nora!
November 30, 2020
This book got me out of my month-long reading slump, so what more is there to say? Actually, there is a lot I need to say because I just loved this book! A friend of mine recommended a contemporary romance book by Nora Roberts to me, but I wasn’t in the mood for that genre and “Black Hills” being Romance suspense was just too irresistible!
The book is set in South Dakota. Cooper Sullivan comes to stay with his grandparents because his parents are going through a messy divorce. There Lil Chance and Cooper strike a friendship, and at one point, they also become childhood sweethearts. However, their relationship comes to an abrupt end. Now 12 years later, they reunite again and are forced to confront their past. Moreover, there’s a killer on loose who is after Lil and wants to bring down everything she worked for.
The plot of this book is quite unique, which is why I started reading it! I love stories set in the countryside, idyllic locations, and wildlife close to nature. And the female lead runs a Wildlife Refuge, now that’s something I never read about! I absolutely loved the picturesque descriptions of nature, wildlife, wild animals. It transported me into the places I was reading about, which was such an enjoyable experience.
The story is slow-paced, that’s just right for savoring all the details and completely immersing yourself in the world. I got what I came for- the working of the wildlife sanctuary. It’s fascinating to learn about what goes into running the refuge right from planning the structure, feeding animals, procuring animals from around the world and protecting the place, and getting donations to keep it running!
The book walks the line between suspense and romance and does a marvelous job at it! I felt like the character development, the development of the relationship between the main characters, the beautiful narration, and the conflict are well balanced. If you’re looking for a sweet romance mingled with a little danger, then this one’s for you.
*Spoiler Alert*
(I had a minor complaint. I wish the ending was a bit more thrilling! I was thinking they must face some grim consequences before the killer is captured. The entire time I was afraid that Farley is going to die, which didn’t happen. And I’m glad it didn’t happen because I love his character! But I wish the climax was a bit intense!)
All in all, I highly recommend this book!
INSTAGRAM
The book is set in South Dakota. Cooper Sullivan comes to stay with his grandparents because his parents are going through a messy divorce. There Lil Chance and Cooper strike a friendship, and at one point, they also become childhood sweethearts. However, their relationship comes to an abrupt end. Now 12 years later, they reunite again and are forced to confront their past. Moreover, there’s a killer on loose who is after Lil and wants to bring down everything she worked for.
The plot of this book is quite unique, which is why I started reading it! I love stories set in the countryside, idyllic locations, and wildlife close to nature. And the female lead runs a Wildlife Refuge, now that’s something I never read about! I absolutely loved the picturesque descriptions of nature, wildlife, wild animals. It transported me into the places I was reading about, which was such an enjoyable experience.
The story is slow-paced, that’s just right for savoring all the details and completely immersing yourself in the world. I got what I came for- the working of the wildlife sanctuary. It’s fascinating to learn about what goes into running the refuge right from planning the structure, feeding animals, procuring animals from around the world and protecting the place, and getting donations to keep it running!
The book walks the line between suspense and romance and does a marvelous job at it! I felt like the character development, the development of the relationship between the main characters, the beautiful narration, and the conflict are well balanced. If you’re looking for a sweet romance mingled with a little danger, then this one’s for you.
*Spoiler Alert*
(I had a minor complaint. I wish the ending was a bit more thrilling! I was thinking they must face some grim consequences before the killer is captured. The entire time I was afraid that Farley is going to die, which didn’t happen. And I’m glad it didn’t happen because I love his character! But I wish the climax was a bit intense!)
All in all, I highly recommend this book!
July 12, 2009
Solid 4-stars, maybe bordering on 4.5. This was just an all around solid book for me. There were two things that kept it from being a 5-star read, and neither of those were critical issues. But overall, I have to say I enjoyed this book a lot (and I'm trying not to be a biased Nora Roberts groupie when I say that).
Cooper Sullivan was just eleven years old when his parents sent him off to his grandparents farm in the Black Hills of South Dakota for the summer. For Coop, it was like being sent to prison and he hated it. But a talk with his grandmother convinces him to give it a chance so he does and befriends nine-year-old Lil Chance in the process. Over the years their friendship grows until, in their late teens, it becomes more. Lil thinks they are starting their future together, but after a while it all falls apart and they go their separate ways.
Now twelve years have passed. Lil has fulfilled her lifelong dream of opening a wildlife refuge and everything is going well for her. Then Coop, a retired detective, returns, this time for good. Coop broke her heart once and Lil is determined to not let him do it again. For Coop, seeing Lil is a painful reminder of the hardships of his life. The two come to an unintentional truce of leaving each other alone. But then danger threatens Lil. Someone is messing with her Refuge, pulling "pranks" and then killing a cougar.
Coop can't sit by while Lil is in danger, especially when it becomes clear that Lil is in real danger. He also realizes that it's time to clear things up between them personally. He loves her, always has, but now he has to regain her trust. And hope to keep her safe from a madman who loves the thrill of the hunt.
I've read quite a few comments already about hot the animal/nature aspect of the book didn't do anything for the reader...but for me, I loved that part of the story. Of course, I love nature and animals and all that. So it was interesting to read about the Refuge, how things worked, the animals, etc. And I loved the bond between Lil and Baby the cougar. So sweet. Especially how the ending worked out. Realistic? Probably not! But very interesting to read and a great way to resolve the suspense part of the story. All in all, this part of the story just worked for me.
I also liked how the beginning of the book was done. The story goes back to when Coop and Lil are kids and meet for the first time and progresses through some key scenes. Roberts has done "time progression" stories before (and I've always loved them), but this one is not quite as involved. The "flashback" part is only about 80 pages. So the past doesn't overwhelm the story. But I thought those first 80 pages were nice to read; gives you some great insight into the characters and the bond between them.
As for the relationship between Lil and Coop...I liked it, but I can't say I loved it. There was definitely chemistry between them and a strong bond, but there was something just a little bit off and I can't put my finger on it. The two were enjoyable to read overall, though. There were some really sweet scenes and I liked how Coop worked to show here he was back for good and that she could trust him.
There's also a secondary romance between Farley and Tansy. Enjoyable to read. Farley was a cool character. Very "aww schucks!" And Tansy was like his polar opposite. So their romance was interesting.
I have two somewhat minor complaints about the book:
First, the identity of the bad guy is reveals fairly early in the book and I found that rather annoying. It deadened the suspense angle somewhat and made things a bit less intense. It didn't really make sense to me why Roberts just flat out gave away the identity. I would have rather there been more of a guessing game, more trying to figure out who was trying to hurt Lil. So that took away a little bit from the book, for me.
And secondly - and this is may be more personal preference than anything else - I would have liked it if Coop had had to face his family issues within the present part of the story. There's some reference to Coop "coming to peace," so to speak, with the way things were, but to me, things between Coop and his parents felt rather unsettled. And because Coop's family dynamics played a role in what happened between him and Lil, it took a little away from their relationship (that unsettled feeling between Coop and his parents). So yeah, I wouldn't have minded something happening on that front.
Overall, though, this was a solid book from Roberts. I'm not sure it would qualify in my top ten of favorites, but it's definitely a book I wouldn't mind reading again in a year or so. It was fun to read, very nature-centered, with a nice romance, and a pretty good suspense angle.
Cooper Sullivan was just eleven years old when his parents sent him off to his grandparents farm in the Black Hills of South Dakota for the summer. For Coop, it was like being sent to prison and he hated it. But a talk with his grandmother convinces him to give it a chance so he does and befriends nine-year-old Lil Chance in the process. Over the years their friendship grows until, in their late teens, it becomes more. Lil thinks they are starting their future together, but after a while it all falls apart and they go their separate ways.
Now twelve years have passed. Lil has fulfilled her lifelong dream of opening a wildlife refuge and everything is going well for her. Then Coop, a retired detective, returns, this time for good. Coop broke her heart once and Lil is determined to not let him do it again. For Coop, seeing Lil is a painful reminder of the hardships of his life. The two come to an unintentional truce of leaving each other alone. But then danger threatens Lil. Someone is messing with her Refuge, pulling "pranks" and then killing a cougar.
Coop can't sit by while Lil is in danger, especially when it becomes clear that Lil is in real danger. He also realizes that it's time to clear things up between them personally. He loves her, always has, but now he has to regain her trust. And hope to keep her safe from a madman who loves the thrill of the hunt.
I've read quite a few comments already about hot the animal/nature aspect of the book didn't do anything for the reader...but for me, I loved that part of the story. Of course, I love nature and animals and all that. So it was interesting to read about the Refuge, how things worked, the animals, etc. And I loved the bond between Lil and Baby the cougar. So sweet. Especially how the ending worked out. Realistic? Probably not! But very interesting to read and a great way to resolve the suspense part of the story. All in all, this part of the story just worked for me.
I also liked how the beginning of the book was done. The story goes back to when Coop and Lil are kids and meet for the first time and progresses through some key scenes. Roberts has done "time progression" stories before (and I've always loved them), but this one is not quite as involved. The "flashback" part is only about 80 pages. So the past doesn't overwhelm the story. But I thought those first 80 pages were nice to read; gives you some great insight into the characters and the bond between them.
As for the relationship between Lil and Coop...I liked it, but I can't say I loved it. There was definitely chemistry between them and a strong bond, but there was something just a little bit off and I can't put my finger on it. The two were enjoyable to read overall, though. There were some really sweet scenes and I liked how Coop worked to show here he was back for good and that she could trust him.
There's also a secondary romance between Farley and Tansy. Enjoyable to read. Farley was a cool character. Very "aww schucks!" And Tansy was like his polar opposite. So their romance was interesting.
I have two somewhat minor complaints about the book:
First, the identity of the bad guy is reveals fairly early in the book and I found that rather annoying. It deadened the suspense angle somewhat and made things a bit less intense. It didn't really make sense to me why Roberts just flat out gave away the identity. I would have rather there been more of a guessing game, more trying to figure out who was trying to hurt Lil. So that took away a little bit from the book, for me.
And secondly - and this is may be more personal preference than anything else - I would have liked it if Coop had had to face his family issues within the present part of the story. There's some reference to Coop "coming to peace," so to speak, with the way things were, but to me, things between Coop and his parents felt rather unsettled. And because Coop's family dynamics played a role in what happened between him and Lil, it took a little away from their relationship (that unsettled feeling between Coop and his parents). So yeah, I wouldn't have minded something happening on that front.
Overall, though, this was a solid book from Roberts. I'm not sure it would qualify in my top ten of favorites, but it's definitely a book I wouldn't mind reading again in a year or so. It was fun to read, very nature-centered, with a nice romance, and a pretty good suspense angle.
August 21, 2009
It was a little difficult to decide on a star rating for Nora’s latest. The begining was great, the middle lulled, and then the end was good. I waffled between 3 ½ and 4 and decided-what the heck, go for four.
Lil and Coop became close as children when he would spend summers at his grandparents’ home in South Dakota. He was a city boy that had never seen the country. Lil, a Sioux descendant, was raised there with her sort of hippie-like parents. Lil is fascinated by wild animals, particularly the cougar.
They fall in love in their teens; however, they have separate goals and are inevitably separated. Lil wants to open a wildlife refuge on her parents’ land, and Coop is defying his father by not going to law school and joining the police academy. On one of their last few days together, they are in the woods and stumble upon a crime scene.
Twelve years later, Lil has opened her refuge. She’s just come home from a six month trip in South America, and she discovers Coop is back in town for good. She has mixed feelings about it, because she feels he broke her heart years ago. She was willing to do anything to keep their relationship, but he was insistent they separate. While the two are getting reacquainted, a psycho appears. Someone is terrorizing Lil and her refuge.
I liked Coop a lot, and it didn’t hurt that he was a cop—my favorite type of hero. He was of course gorgeous, patient, and determined to protect Lil and to keep her forever. Lil was very reluctant to let him back in after she was hurt. She’s a tough girl, however didn’t cross to line to being a ball buster. I can’t stand that type of heroine.
There is a secondary romance that is really sweet, and I wish the author had spent more time on them. For those that are interested in interracial romance, you’d like this one. The couple is BWWM. The hot cowboy pursues this few years older woman and romances her to pieces.
I recommend to fans of Nora, and those that like light romantic suspense.
Lil and Coop became close as children when he would spend summers at his grandparents’ home in South Dakota. He was a city boy that had never seen the country. Lil, a Sioux descendant, was raised there with her sort of hippie-like parents. Lil is fascinated by wild animals, particularly the cougar.
They fall in love in their teens; however, they have separate goals and are inevitably separated. Lil wants to open a wildlife refuge on her parents’ land, and Coop is defying his father by not going to law school and joining the police academy. On one of their last few days together, they are in the woods and stumble upon a crime scene.
Twelve years later, Lil has opened her refuge. She’s just come home from a six month trip in South America, and she discovers Coop is back in town for good. She has mixed feelings about it, because she feels he broke her heart years ago. She was willing to do anything to keep their relationship, but he was insistent they separate. While the two are getting reacquainted, a psycho appears. Someone is terrorizing Lil and her refuge.
I liked Coop a lot, and it didn’t hurt that he was a cop—my favorite type of hero. He was of course gorgeous, patient, and determined to protect Lil and to keep her forever. Lil was very reluctant to let him back in after she was hurt. She’s a tough girl, however didn’t cross to line to being a ball buster. I can’t stand that type of heroine.
There is a secondary romance that is really sweet, and I wish the author had spent more time on them. For those that are interested in interracial romance, you’d like this one. The couple is BWWM. The hot cowboy pursues this few years older woman and romances her to pieces.
I recommend to fans of Nora, and those that like light romantic suspense.
June 11, 2019
3.5 Stars
July 27, 2025
An emotional, complicated, second chance love story set in the breathtaking Black Hills, South Dakota, a compelling, suspenseful thriller, strong characters, main and secondary ones, an endangered species refuge and an insane serial killer, will keep you reading past your betime!
Lil and Coop know each other since they were small children and Coop came from New York to spend the summer wih his grandparents.
They became friends, then fell in love at 18 / 19 years-old and then life, their dreams and other circumstances kept them apart for 12 years, broking both their hearts.
Now, both still in love with each other, they try to recapture the intimacy, the happiness they once had, to forgive, to understand the reasons why they fell apart and to protect Lil, both their families and the Refuge from the deranged killer!
This is Nora Roberts at her best!
Lil and Coop know each other since they were small children and Coop came from New York to spend the summer wih his grandparents.
They became friends, then fell in love at 18 / 19 years-old and then life, their dreams and other circumstances kept them apart for 12 years, broking both their hearts.
Now, both still in love with each other, they try to recapture the intimacy, the happiness they once had, to forgive, to understand the reasons why they fell apart and to protect Lil, both their families and the Refuge from the deranged killer!
This is Nora Roberts at her best!
October 14, 2020
Listened to this one on Audible during car trips. Excellent story (4 stars) and fantastic narrator (5 stars) - RTC
May 21, 2025
5/5⭐️
3/5🌶
Hermoso libro.
Como siempre, NR demuestra que se puede escribir romance, sin resignar calidad literaria.
La historia de amor es linda, cumple y tiene todos los condimentos necesarios del género. pero el libro va más allá del mero romance y nos da un suspense complejo y bien llevado.
la ambientación es espectacular, la información sobre la profesión de la protagonista, sobre la conservación de áreas protegidas y el cuidado de animales salvajes abunda. Es una característica de los libros de NR estar muy bien documentados. Es de esas en los que una sale aprendiendo siempre algo nuevo.
me gustaron los personajes secundarios, me gustó la trama y me gustó que ella cuestione las explicaciones de él. todo se sintió muy real.
lo recomiendo.
3/5🌶
Hermoso libro.
Como siempre, NR demuestra que se puede escribir romance, sin resignar calidad literaria.
La historia de amor es linda, cumple y tiene todos los condimentos necesarios del género. pero el libro va más allá del mero romance y nos da un suspense complejo y bien llevado.
la ambientación es espectacular, la información sobre la profesión de la protagonista, sobre la conservación de áreas protegidas y el cuidado de animales salvajes abunda. Es una característica de los libros de NR estar muy bien documentados. Es de esas en los que una sale aprendiendo siempre algo nuevo.
me gustaron los personajes secundarios, me gustó la trama y me gustó que ella cuestione las explicaciones de él. todo se sintió muy real.
lo recomiendo.
July 19, 2009
The only reason I finished this book was because I wanted to see how the end scene played out. I assumed that the bad guy would kidnap her and I wanted to see what happened there. Honestly, the only good thing I can say about this book was that it was pretty cool the way Baby came to the rescue.
The rest of this book was just not fun for me. I couldn't fully get behind Lil's refuge because while I understand some of the animals there, I don't really agree with taking an animal out of its natural habitat because it got old. The majority of the story felt like the refuge and, after a while, I just didn't care to hear anymore.
I liked Lil and Coop a lot more as children than adults, and even as children, Lil's "This place is SO much better than the city even though I've never been to the city" got on my nerves. As adults, I found Coop to be bossy, controlling, and selfish. I found Lil to be annoying in how she kept swearing that Coop broke her heart 11 years ago and she still can't get over it.
Basically, this book has left me wondering if I'll ever read another romance novel again. It seems as though the trend is to have this boorish men who only care about what they want, and their feelings. Coop flat out said that he didn't care what she wanted or thought, he wanted her and she would just have to come around. The same thing happened with Farley and Tansy. This is excused away by saying that the women had feelings for the men, too, but they had to be convinced that it was okay. It bothered me that these women were basically stalked and I'm supposed to think that this is romantic. The way Farley told Tansy that they were going to get married really bugged me. As did Coop's decision that the relationship was too hard back then, but now it's easier since he moved back, so now they'll be together. I find relationships more romantic and appealing when they are equal partners. Coop cared nothing at all about Lil's feelings when they broke up or when he decided they were going to hook back up. Tansy's fears regarding a relationship with Farley were just blown off as being silly.
So, no, I didn't like this book at all. The ending was okay, but overall, I had to force myself to read it and I basically skimmed the last half of the book just to get it finished.
The rest of this book was just not fun for me. I couldn't fully get behind Lil's refuge because while I understand some of the animals there, I don't really agree with taking an animal out of its natural habitat because it got old. The majority of the story felt like the refuge and, after a while, I just didn't care to hear anymore.
I liked Lil and Coop a lot more as children than adults, and even as children, Lil's "This place is SO much better than the city even though I've never been to the city" got on my nerves. As adults, I found Coop to be bossy, controlling, and selfish. I found Lil to be annoying in how she kept swearing that Coop broke her heart 11 years ago and she still can't get over it.
Basically, this book has left me wondering if I'll ever read another romance novel again. It seems as though the trend is to have this boorish men who only care about what they want, and their feelings. Coop flat out said that he didn't care what she wanted or thought, he wanted her and she would just have to come around. The same thing happened with Farley and Tansy. This is excused away by saying that the women had feelings for the men, too, but they had to be convinced that it was okay. It bothered me that these women were basically stalked and I'm supposed to think that this is romantic. The way Farley told Tansy that they were going to get married really bugged me. As did Coop's decision that the relationship was too hard back then, but now it's easier since he moved back, so now they'll be together. I find relationships more romantic and appealing when they are equal partners. Coop cared nothing at all about Lil's feelings when they broke up or when he decided they were going to hook back up. Tansy's fears regarding a relationship with Farley were just blown off as being silly.
So, no, I didn't like this book at all. The ending was okay, but overall, I had to force myself to read it and I basically skimmed the last half of the book just to get it finished.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2022
2,5*
Apesar do tema principal ser supostamente a conservação da natureza, acho que não foi abordado da melhor forma.
O foco da história é um "refúgio" para animais selvagens que não podem ser devolvidos à natureza. Para mim, o objectivo principal deste tipo de estruturas deve ser a educação ambiental (e, eventualmente, a reprodução em cativeiro, em situações muito particulares, como espécies criticamente ameaçadas de extinção).
Estes locais podem ser úteis na sensibilização das pessoas para a necessidade de conservação das espécies nos seus habitats naturais, tanto pelo seu valor intrínseco como pelo papel que desempenham no equilíbrio dos ecossistemas.
Nesta história, essa perspectiva nunca é referida, sendo apenas dadas informações (aos visitantes do refúgio e, por extensão, aos leitores) sobre os hábitos e características desta ou daquela espécie.
Há um romance tórrido entre os protagonistas, que não me emocionou, e um psicopata cuja identidade é revelada demasiado cedo, o que diminuiu o meu interesse nessa vertente da história.
Como nota positiva, a tradução é bastante razoável e acho que só detectei uma única gralha.
A sinopse da contracapa conta demais e inclui uma informação errada (não vou dizer qual para não spoilar).
Primeiro e último de Nora Roberts.
Apesar do tema principal ser supostamente a conservação da natureza, acho que não foi abordado da melhor forma.
O foco da história é um "refúgio" para animais selvagens que não podem ser devolvidos à natureza. Para mim, o objectivo principal deste tipo de estruturas deve ser a educação ambiental (e, eventualmente, a reprodução em cativeiro, em situações muito particulares, como espécies criticamente ameaçadas de extinção).
Estes locais podem ser úteis na sensibilização das pessoas para a necessidade de conservação das espécies nos seus habitats naturais, tanto pelo seu valor intrínseco como pelo papel que desempenham no equilíbrio dos ecossistemas.
Nesta história, essa perspectiva nunca é referida, sendo apenas dadas informações (aos visitantes do refúgio e, por extensão, aos leitores) sobre os hábitos e características desta ou daquela espécie.
Há um romance tórrido entre os protagonistas, que não me emocionou, e um psicopata cuja identidade é revelada demasiado cedo, o que diminuiu o meu interesse nessa vertente da história.
Como nota positiva, a tradução é bastante razoável e acho que só detectei uma única gralha.
A sinopse da contracapa conta demais e inclui uma informação errada (não vou dizer qual para não spoilar).
Primeiro e último de Nora Roberts.
April 10, 2019
This could be easy five stars rating if it wasn't so damn long and quite boring with all the manual of wild life.
September 7, 2020
A very unlikable hero... Arrogant, I-know-wht's-best-for you... Arghhhh
April 2, 2018
I loved Lil and Coop together. They were adorable together. Farley and Tansy were also adorable together. I may have shed a few tears when Farley had gone outside when they were going to start making plans for a house then Jenna followed him out, and he called her Ma. Baby was my favorite of all the animals especially since he had followed Lil and he was her favorite also.
Lil and Coop's relationship showed that you never get over your first love. It also showed that there are always obstacles when it comes to the people you love. When it comes to the people you love you will do whatever you can to keep them safe.
One quote that I liked :
“Do you know how many ways love can hit you? So it makes you happy, or miserable? It makes you sick in the belly or hurt in the heart. It makes everything brighter and sharper, or it blurs all the edges. It makes you feel like a king or a fool. Every way love can hit you, it's hit me when it comes to you”
Lil and Coop's relationship showed that you never get over your first love. It also showed that there are always obstacles when it comes to the people you love. When it comes to the people you love you will do whatever you can to keep them safe.
One quote that I liked :
“Do you know how many ways love can hit you? So it makes you happy, or miserable? It makes you sick in the belly or hurt in the heart. It makes everything brighter and sharper, or it blurs all the edges. It makes you feel like a king or a fool. Every way love can hit you, it's hit me when it comes to you”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2018
Colinas negras es una estupenda novela, es ágil, trepidante y consigue que te quedes enganchada a sus páginas. La historia surge en las montañas de Estados Unidos con un trasfondo vinculado a los descendientes de los indios y al amor de la prota por los animales salvajes. Un relato fresco, dinámico y romántico, en un ambiente espectacular, en plena naturaleza, ranchos, granjas, animales salvajes y caballos se enmarca una historia de suspenso/romance con sus tira y afloja llevada con gran acierto. Me ha gustado bastante el libro :)
July 6, 2015
Elegí esta novela de Nora Roberts por recomendación de una lectora y amiga de las RS y ha resultado ser un acierto. "Colinas negras" es una estupenda "novela de verano" (me estoy planteando escribir un post sobre este tema, "novelas de verano") en el sentido de que es ágil, trepidante y consigue que te quedes enganchada a sus páginas. No resumiré la historia, solo diré que parte de una premisa básica del género; el primer amor que acaba porque uno de los dos (el héroe) se sacrifica para que el otro (la protagonista) consiga sus sueños profesionales y vuelven a coincidir al cabo de unos años. En este caso, la señora Roberts, maestra del género, sitúa la historia en las montañas de Estados Unidos con un trasfondo vinculado a los descendientes de los indios y a los animales salvajes. El misterio es relativamente previsible, igual que lo es el final feliz de la pareja, pero eso no le quita intriga ni emoción. Cooper es un muy buen protagonista masculino, quizá he echado en falta conocer más detalles sobre los años que pasa separado de Lillian, pero es convincente, coherente y romántico. En el caso de Lillian, debo confesar que en algunos momentos no he coincidido con ella, aunque he logrado entenderla.
"Colinas negras" es una novela muy sólida, cuenta con un argumento sin fisuras y su pareja protagonista está muy bien construida. En mi caso, probablemente la novela me habría gustado más si la historia de amor hubiese tenido más dramatismo (un final un poco más largo, quizá), pero me he emocionado y recomiendo su lectura sin dudarlo a cualquier amante de la literatura romántica contemporánea y también a todos los lectores de novelas de intriga.
"Colinas negras" es una novela muy sólida, cuenta con un argumento sin fisuras y su pareja protagonista está muy bien construida. En mi caso, probablemente la novela me habría gustado más si la historia de amor hubiese tenido más dramatismo (un final un poco más largo, quizá), pero me he emocionado y recomiendo su lectura sin dudarlo a cualquier amante de la literatura romántica contemporánea y también a todos los lectores de novelas de intriga.
September 2, 2009
Let me say up front that I had especially high standards for this book. I'm from the Black Hills: I was born in Deadwood, graduated high school in Rapid City, and went to grad school in Spearfish, the three towns she names in the book. I also have a decent amount of knowledge about the Lakota history and relationship with the Hills.
Maybe if this plot was used in a setting/culture I was unfamiliar with, I would have liked it, but I really, really didn't. There were little mistakes (a "beef farmer" = a "rancher," dude), wacky geography, and clunky exposition (there was an infodump about the Sioux Black Hills lawsuit/settlement that made me grind my teeth, it had so little place in the scene).
But the thing that really bothers me is this: the villain has bought into every stupid stereotype about Native Americans Roberts could think of. She attempted to balance that with some exposition from other characters about why he was wrong, but see above about clunky exposition. It really didn't work for me. I'm super extra sensitive about this, and it made me nuts.
Also, there were three Native American characters in the entire book, and not a one of them had both Lakota parents. Not one.
The plot itself was okay but not great; the two romance storylines were all about the guys pursuing women who told them no, which I'm also not fond of.
And did I mention? A beef farmer is a RANCHER. wtf.
Maybe if this plot was used in a setting/culture I was unfamiliar with, I would have liked it, but I really, really didn't. There were little mistakes (a "beef farmer" = a "rancher," dude), wacky geography, and clunky exposition (there was an infodump about the Sioux Black Hills lawsuit/settlement that made me grind my teeth, it had so little place in the scene).
But the thing that really bothers me is this: the villain has bought into every stupid stereotype about Native Americans Roberts could think of. She attempted to balance that with some exposition from other characters about why he was wrong, but see above about clunky exposition. It really didn't work for me. I'm super extra sensitive about this, and it made me nuts.
Also, there were three Native American characters in the entire book, and not a one of them had both Lakota parents. Not one.
The plot itself was okay but not great; the two romance storylines were all about the guys pursuing women who told them no, which I'm also not fond of.
And did I mention? A beef farmer is a RANCHER. wtf.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2022
4+ stars.⭐⭐⭐⭐💕
A page turner.....stayed up late to finish.
As usual Nora Roberts delivers.
Her books are smart, entertaining and I really love the way she writes.
I also rather enjoy romantic suspense and this rural setting in South Dakota with the wild animal rescue at the heart of the story was perfect for me.
Strong heroine....not unusual for Ms. Roberts and I liked the hero as well ...a second chance romance with a great cast of characters.
A page turner.....stayed up late to finish.
As usual Nora Roberts delivers.
Her books are smart, entertaining and I really love the way she writes.
I also rather enjoy romantic suspense and this rural setting in South Dakota with the wild animal rescue at the heart of the story was perfect for me.
Strong heroine....not unusual for Ms. Roberts and I liked the hero as well ...a second chance romance with a great cast of characters.
April 8, 2019
This is probably one of my favorite NR books. It was a re-read that still kept me turning pages.
First, I loved the secondary characters and the secondary romance in this one. It brought a lot of depth to an already good story. What was not to love about Coop's grandparents, Lil's parents and Tansy and Farley? The Chance Animal Reserve was great backdrop, especially Baby the cougar.
First, I loved the secondary characters and the secondary romance in this one. It brought a lot of depth to an already good story. What was not to love about Coop's grandparents, Lil's parents and Tansy and Farley? The Chance Animal Reserve was great backdrop, especially Baby the cougar.
February 28, 2017
Me ha gustado un monton y me lo he leido del tiron
Me gustan los protagonistas, me gustan los pumas, los tigres, sus amigos, los abuelos......... osea que me gusta todo todo todo y aunque enseguida se sepa quien es el malo, es una cosa que a mi no me importa
mi puntuacion es un 9
Me gustan los protagonistas, me gustan los pumas, los tigres, sus amigos, los abuelos......... osea que me gusta todo todo todo y aunque enseguida se sepa quien es el malo, es una cosa que a mi no me importa
mi puntuacion es un 9
October 25, 2020
One Sentence Summary:
Can Dr Lillian Chance and ex-cop Cooper Sullivan outwit a crazed serial killer to save Lil's Wildlife Refuge and reignite the passionate flame of first love?
Favourite Quote:
"Loving you made a man out of me," he said when he let her go. "It's the man who came back for you." (Page 374)
My Review:
Being an Aussie who lives half an hour from the beach and has ridden a horse only once in her lifetime; I loved this Nora Roberts novel! There is just something about the American Wilderness - so different to the Aussie outback or rainforest - that I found so appealing. Combined with the wildlife refuge element and all the talk about big cats and I was sucked in. I fell in love with the setting and premise of this novel before I fell in love with the characters (although that didn't take long either!) I wanted to book a plane ticket so I could see the South Dakota night sky for real.
Although I've read a couple of other reviews who haven't favoured the characters of this book, I have to tell you honestly that I really loved the main characters and their chemistry. Cooper's a typical bossy alpha male (no complaints here) and Lil is an intelligent, likeable female lead who gives just as good as she gets. Surprisingly, even the jilted childhood sweethearts storyline worked for me and the suspense element really heightens the romantic tension.
The suspense element of this novel wasn't nightmare-inducing however it certainly was enough to keep me flipping pages quickly. I tend to think of Nora Roberts romantic suspense as crime novels for chickens (like me). If it weren't for the absolute guarantee that both the hero and the heroine are going to live and have their happily ever after, I don't think my poor nerves could cope with the serial killers and other assorted nasties she writes about. So if you're a seasoned suspense reader you may not be phased by this part of the plot; if you're like me, you may find yourself biting your nails on more than one occasion.
Apart from wanting to read the talked-about wedding, I really can't think of anything I'd like to change about this book. I loved it from start to finish - it was just what I needed. Fans of Angel's Falls and Nora Roberts's other romantic suspense novels will enjoy this read!
For more reviews visit my blog by clicking below:
Watch more LIVE bestselling author interviews and win free books!
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Can Dr Lillian Chance and ex-cop Cooper Sullivan outwit a crazed serial killer to save Lil's Wildlife Refuge and reignite the passionate flame of first love?
Favourite Quote:
"Loving you made a man out of me," he said when he let her go. "It's the man who came back for you." (Page 374)
My Review:
Being an Aussie who lives half an hour from the beach and has ridden a horse only once in her lifetime; I loved this Nora Roberts novel! There is just something about the American Wilderness - so different to the Aussie outback or rainforest - that I found so appealing. Combined with the wildlife refuge element and all the talk about big cats and I was sucked in. I fell in love with the setting and premise of this novel before I fell in love with the characters (although that didn't take long either!) I wanted to book a plane ticket so I could see the South Dakota night sky for real.
Although I've read a couple of other reviews who haven't favoured the characters of this book, I have to tell you honestly that I really loved the main characters and their chemistry. Cooper's a typical bossy alpha male (no complaints here) and Lil is an intelligent, likeable female lead who gives just as good as she gets. Surprisingly, even the jilted childhood sweethearts storyline worked for me and the suspense element really heightens the romantic tension.
The suspense element of this novel wasn't nightmare-inducing however it certainly was enough to keep me flipping pages quickly. I tend to think of Nora Roberts romantic suspense as crime novels for chickens (like me). If it weren't for the absolute guarantee that both the hero and the heroine are going to live and have their happily ever after, I don't think my poor nerves could cope with the serial killers and other assorted nasties she writes about. So if you're a seasoned suspense reader you may not be phased by this part of the plot; if you're like me, you may find yourself biting your nails on more than one occasion.
Apart from wanting to read the talked-about wedding, I really can't think of anything I'd like to change about this book. I loved it from start to finish - it was just what I needed. Fans of Angel's Falls and Nora Roberts's other romantic suspense novels will enjoy this read!
For more reviews visit my blog by clicking below:
Watch more LIVE bestselling author interviews and win free books!
In this fun interview series, bestselling novelists reveal the secrets behind their beloved stories…all whilst playing a round of Pictionary with a live audience…YOU!
Subscribe now to ensure you don’t miss an episode!
September 26, 2025
Mayo de 2025: Puf, Jesús, qué nervios. No he podido parar hasta acabarlo. De lo mejor que he leído de La Nora. Sí, así se escribe suspense romántico, sin prisa pero sin perder altura nunca, incrementando la tensión paso a paso.
Otro día ya, si eso, hablamos del libro...
4,5 o 5 ⭐
Septiembre de 2025: Pues al final no me decidí a publicar reseña aquí, así que si os interesa mi experiencia con este libro, la cuento in extenso en mi blog.
Esto va de Copper & Lillian, que se conocen de niños en las Colinas Negras de Dakota del Sur, se enamoran de jovencitos, rompen y se reencuentran años después. Suspense y romance muy bien enlazados. ¡Ah, y felinos salvajes en las montañas!
Otro día ya, si eso, hablamos del libro...
4,5 o 5 ⭐
Septiembre de 2025: Pues al final no me decidí a publicar reseña aquí, así que si os interesa mi experiencia con este libro, la cuento in extenso en mi blog.
Esto va de Copper & Lillian, que se conocen de niños en las Colinas Negras de Dakota del Sur, se enamoran de jovencitos, rompen y se reencuentran años después. Suspense y romance muy bien enlazados. ¡Ah, y felinos salvajes en las montañas!
August 13, 2017
Un relato fresco, dinamico y romantico. En un ambiente espectacular, en plena naturaleza, ranchos, granjas y caballos se enmarca una historia de suspense/romance con sus tira y afloja llevada con gran acierto.
Muy entretenida, de las que no puedes parar hasta acabarla.
Muy entretenida, de las que no puedes parar hasta acabarla.
April 3, 2024
Re-read.
I have always remembered this one and the feelings that I experienced the first time I read it fifteen years ago. It's still good! ;)
I have always remembered this one and the feelings that I experienced the first time I read it fifteen years ago. It's still good! ;)
December 18, 2014
3.5 stars. really enjoyable book. I found it hard to put down at times. Cool meets Lil when he is 11 after being sent to live with his grandparents while his parents attempt to save their marriage. What he thinks will be the worst summer of his life becomes one that shapes his life. Coop meets Lil, a baseball loving girl with a homemade baseball diamond in her backyard. He continues to visit his grandparents each summer and his bond with Lil grows turning into romance during their teen years. Separated by distance, and their different career dreams, their relationship end. years later they meet again as Coop moves back to care for his grandparents. Lil is running a successful animal sanctuary and has traveled the world working as an animal biologist.
The same attraction is there between them but Lil cannot forget how Coop broke her heart years ago. making matters worse, there is a serial killer taunting Lil. A seriAl killer who believes he is a Sioux Warrior defending sacred land that is rightfully his. We learn his identity fairly early on and learn about his various kills. I didn't mind knowing who the killer was. As the killer taunts Lil, killing animals, sending her an email, etc. her relationship with Coop intensifies as does the relationship between characters Tansey and Farley. The suspense builds as Lil attempts to save a loved ones life.
As mentioned, I found this book to be hard toput down at times.
The same attraction is there between them but Lil cannot forget how Coop broke her heart years ago. making matters worse, there is a serial killer taunting Lil. A seriAl killer who believes he is a Sioux Warrior defending sacred land that is rightfully his. We learn his identity fairly early on and learn about his various kills. I didn't mind knowing who the killer was. As the killer taunts Lil, killing animals, sending her an email, etc. her relationship with Coop intensifies as does the relationship between characters Tansey and Farley. The suspense builds as Lil attempts to save a loved ones life.
As mentioned, I found this book to be hard toput down at times.
February 26, 2019
Did a library reread but now remember why this wasn't one I was a fan of. Second chance love story between hero and heroine.
He was a city kid visiting and she was a tom boy and they became friends that became more then broke up due to hero feeling inadequate due to his upbringing. He and her are both back at the same time after years away and fall again.
It was one that didn't appeal for me. I could never really enjoy the couple truly and the main story and mystery didn't keep me in it either so more like two stars really.
He was a city kid visiting and she was a tom boy and they became friends that became more then broke up due to hero feeling inadequate due to his upbringing. He and her are both back at the same time after years away and fall again.
It was one that didn't appeal for me. I could never really enjoy the couple truly and the main story and mystery didn't keep me in it either so more like two stars really.
March 26, 2011
~* 3.5 Stars *~
For years I've read Nora Roberts books, always considering myself a huge fan. Whether contemporary romance, paranormal romance, or romantic suspense...whether stand alone books or trilogies or short series...I've always counted on Roberts for a sweeping romantic read that satisfies as it entertains, and for years she's delivered. Some books, of course, I've liked more than others. Some series or trilogies have hit closer to home than others. Some characters I've liked more than others. That's to be expected, I suppose, when you favor an author that produces such a wide range and so many opportunities to read.
And saying that, I can honestly admit I enjoyed Black Hills. It wasn't my favorite effort, but I did enjoy it. The story of Lil and Cooper, two people who have loved each other their whole lives, who knew the love of best friends as children, the world-ending romance of young love, and the sometimes too realistic love of adults, was definitely comprehensive and at turns sweet, romantic, and sensual. Their characters were palatable enough, though I always felt that Lil had a bit more life in her than Coop did, and I very much enjoyed her profession and her passion for it. The surrounding threat of a serial killer loose in the Black Hills of South Dakota was reasonably represented and blended well with the romantic narrative, as do most of Roberts' efforts in this sub-genre. And yet...
Without a doubt, Nora Roberts has written some of the best romantic suspense out there. Montana Sky was a personal favorite of mine, as was River's End and Carolina Moon, and those are just off the top of my head. In those books, and others that I have read of Roberts, the characters and the tension in the story combined with the romance to bring me into the book with almost lyrical effortlessness, until I cared beyond reason for the lives of the characters and their love and safety. I can't say that Black Hills evoked that same sort of passion in me, and that's a true shame.
Like I said, I liked the characters - Roberts is excellent at filling her book with both lead characters and secondary and ancillary characters that could be neighbors, relatives, friends, they're so often recognizable. So comfortable. But for some reason, Black Hills didn't connect me to them as other books of hers have done, so I never quite reached that reading nirvana of feeling like I'd stepped into the book and had it surround me, capture me, and force me into experiencing it on a visceral level. And I can't say I'm sure why it didn't happen here.
Maybe it was the writing style. The flow of the narrative struck me as odd through most of the book...there was a very artistic structure even to the dialogue that read more like a painting of words to stand back and admire aesthetically than a flowing, living story that sucked me in. Several important scenes in Black Hills, scenes that would have given a reader a much more personal experience with these characters, were sort of glossed over or mentioned in a past tense...like the big scene between Lil and Coop that split them up for almost twelve years. Or the scene in New York that closed the door on Cooper's career on the police force. Or Lil's breakup with Jean-Paul. The way this story unfolded, with significant scenes happening outside of the reader's awareness and having them told instead of experienced, I think, hindered the intimacy between character and reader and kept that relationship at a far more superficial level than I'm used to in Nora Roberts's books. At least...I think that's part of the reason.
I also never quite got any sense that I was able to feel what Lil and Cooper were feeling for each other, and Cooper in particular was a far more stoic character than I prefer. The words for his love for Lil were their...eventually...but by then he'd put off such a phlegmatic air that I had a hard time pinning him down. He seemed rather joyless, even proclaiming his love. Dedicated, yes. Unwavering, yes. Determined, yes. Happy about it? Not really. That didn't connect well with me. In that regard, the simple joy between Tansy and Farley in their relationship was more appealing to me as a reader.
I liked the story. I'm still a fan of Roberts. And I'm not one of the many critics who think she's jumped the shark as an author and is now just regurgitating romances and scenes and dialogue with each "new" book. There were parts of this story and characters in it that I felt worked very well. But I've seen her do better. And I was hoping that Black Hills was one of the better ones. It just...wasn't. Not quite.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
For years I've read Nora Roberts books, always considering myself a huge fan. Whether contemporary romance, paranormal romance, or romantic suspense...whether stand alone books or trilogies or short series...I've always counted on Roberts for a sweeping romantic read that satisfies as it entertains, and for years she's delivered. Some books, of course, I've liked more than others. Some series or trilogies have hit closer to home than others. Some characters I've liked more than others. That's to be expected, I suppose, when you favor an author that produces such a wide range and so many opportunities to read.
And saying that, I can honestly admit I enjoyed Black Hills. It wasn't my favorite effort, but I did enjoy it. The story of Lil and Cooper, two people who have loved each other their whole lives, who knew the love of best friends as children, the world-ending romance of young love, and the sometimes too realistic love of adults, was definitely comprehensive and at turns sweet, romantic, and sensual. Their characters were palatable enough, though I always felt that Lil had a bit more life in her than Coop did, and I very much enjoyed her profession and her passion for it. The surrounding threat of a serial killer loose in the Black Hills of South Dakota was reasonably represented and blended well with the romantic narrative, as do most of Roberts' efforts in this sub-genre. And yet...
Without a doubt, Nora Roberts has written some of the best romantic suspense out there. Montana Sky was a personal favorite of mine, as was River's End and Carolina Moon, and those are just off the top of my head. In those books, and others that I have read of Roberts, the characters and the tension in the story combined with the romance to bring me into the book with almost lyrical effortlessness, until I cared beyond reason for the lives of the characters and their love and safety. I can't say that Black Hills evoked that same sort of passion in me, and that's a true shame.
Like I said, I liked the characters - Roberts is excellent at filling her book with both lead characters and secondary and ancillary characters that could be neighbors, relatives, friends, they're so often recognizable. So comfortable. But for some reason, Black Hills didn't connect me to them as other books of hers have done, so I never quite reached that reading nirvana of feeling like I'd stepped into the book and had it surround me, capture me, and force me into experiencing it on a visceral level. And I can't say I'm sure why it didn't happen here.
Maybe it was the writing style. The flow of the narrative struck me as odd through most of the book...there was a very artistic structure even to the dialogue that read more like a painting of words to stand back and admire aesthetically than a flowing, living story that sucked me in. Several important scenes in Black Hills, scenes that would have given a reader a much more personal experience with these characters, were sort of glossed over or mentioned in a past tense...like the big scene between Lil and Coop that split them up for almost twelve years. Or the scene in New York that closed the door on Cooper's career on the police force. Or Lil's breakup with Jean-Paul. The way this story unfolded, with significant scenes happening outside of the reader's awareness and having them told instead of experienced, I think, hindered the intimacy between character and reader and kept that relationship at a far more superficial level than I'm used to in Nora Roberts's books. At least...I think that's part of the reason.
I also never quite got any sense that I was able to feel what Lil and Cooper were feeling for each other, and Cooper in particular was a far more stoic character than I prefer. The words for his love for Lil were their...eventually...but by then he'd put off such a phlegmatic air that I had a hard time pinning him down. He seemed rather joyless, even proclaiming his love. Dedicated, yes. Unwavering, yes. Determined, yes. Happy about it? Not really. That didn't connect well with me. In that regard, the simple joy between Tansy and Farley in their relationship was more appealing to me as a reader.
I liked the story. I'm still a fan of Roberts. And I'm not one of the many critics who think she's jumped the shark as an author and is now just regurgitating romances and scenes and dialogue with each "new" book. There were parts of this story and characters in it that I felt worked very well. But I've seen her do better. And I was hoping that Black Hills was one of the better ones. It just...wasn't. Not quite.
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Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
June 16, 2018
I'd a little less patience for Cooper this time around and his heavy handed ways. But, it's still a kick-ass book, set in one of my favorite places in the world with an awesome heroine written by one of the coolest and most talented authors to ever put pen to page.
May 14, 2019
A story of childhood friends turned sweethearts, who get a second chance at love after re-entering each other's lives years after they broke up.
Lil is a confident, driven woman, who has fulfilled her dream of opening the Chance Wildlife Refuge she dreamed of as a girl after seeing a cougar up close the day she first met Coop.
Coop is the opposite of Lil, unhappy with his home life growing up and directionless, . He has found his footing and himself and has now returned to take care of his grandparents' farm, and hopefully make things right with Lil again.
Lil is more than a little reluctant to let him back into her life given how much he hurt her, but when she's targeted by a psychopath who seems to want to torture and then kill her, Coop is determined to stick by her side and keep her safe.
The two spend time together, and despite Lil's reservations, fall back in love. It takes a while but, .
Engaging story that showed the journey of the main couple from their first meeting until their happy ending.
Lil is a confident, driven woman, who has fulfilled her dream of opening the Chance Wildlife Refuge she dreamed of as a girl after seeing a cougar up close the day she first met Coop.
Coop is the opposite of Lil, unhappy with his home life growing up and directionless, . He has found his footing and himself and has now returned to take care of his grandparents' farm, and hopefully make things right with Lil again.
Lil is more than a little reluctant to let him back into her life given how much he hurt her, but when she's targeted by a psychopath who seems to want to torture and then kill her, Coop is determined to stick by her side and keep her safe.
The two spend time together, and despite Lil's reservations, fall back in love. It takes a while but, .
Engaging story that showed the journey of the main couple from their first meeting until their happy ending.
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