Hidden Sins

Luke Fletcher #1

by Karice Bolton

Luke Fletcher asks himself one simple question. Is she worth dying for?

His answer is yes.

When Hannah Walker rolls into her new town on fumes, she doesn’t expect her past to catch up to her so quickly. But the moment her card is declined for a lousy cup of coffee, she realizes nowhere is safe, and her life on the run has just gotten more complex.

Luke Fletcher has made it his mission in life to protect. When he meets Hannah Walker, she makes it clear that his services aren’t needed and neither is he, but there’s something in her eyes that tells another story. Once he begins investigating the woman with many names, he realizes one thing is clear. Whoever, she’s running from won’t stop until she’s dead.

Determined to gain Hannah’s trust and break down her walls, Luke begins to share his own history, but where that leads could cost them more than their hearts as the sins of others threatens to destroy them both.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, New Adult, Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Mystery, Contemporary

376 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 8, 2014

About the author

Karice is the author of over sixty books that span several genres. She loves nothing more than spending time with her family and sneaking away to write in between with a latte in hand.

She received an MFA in Creative Writing from the U of W.

Sign up for Karice's newsletter and new release info at http://www.karicebolton.com/


Titles include:

Cloudberry Inn Series
Imagining You
Remembering You
Leaving You
Loving You

Sunshine Breakfast Club
Dash of Love
Pinch of Love

Beyond Love Series
Beyond Control (Book 1)
Beyond Doubt (Book 2)
Beyond Reason (Book 3)
Beyond Intent (Book 4)
Beyond Chance (Book 5)
Beyond Promise (Book 6)
Beyond the Mistletoe (Book 7)

Island County Series
Finding Love in Forgotten Cove (Book 1)
Love Redone in Hidden Harbor (Book 2)
Tangled Love on Pelican Point (Book 3)
Forever Love on Fireweed Island (Book 4)
Tempting Love on Holly Lane (Book 5)
Chance at Love at Mystic Bay (Book 6)
Irresistible Love at Silver Falls (Book 7)
Lucky in Love on Hound Island(Book 8)
Mistletoe Mischief (Book 9)

Silver Ridge Series
Happy Truth About Love
A Little Secret About Love
A Funny Thing About Love
A Surprising Thing About Love
Christmas at Silver Ridge

V Mafia Series
Blake
Devin
Jaxson

Luke Fletcher Series
Hidden Sins (Book 1)
Buried Sins (Book 2)
Redemption (Book 3)
Mia (Book 4)

Afterworld Serie
RecruitZ
AlibiZ
UprisingZ

The Camp

The Watchers Trilogy
Taken Novella (A Watchers prequel)
Awakening (Book 1)
Legions (Book 2)
Cataclysm(Book 3)

The Witch Avenue Series
Lonely Souls (Book 1)
Altered Souls (Book 2)
Released Souls (Book 3)
Shattered Souls (Book 4)


The Watchers Trilogy: Awakening was a Barnes & Noble January 2012 Staff Pick: Nook Books Under $5

Reviews

[Mandy Reads Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have wanted to read this book for quite some time. I just never had enough time for "me books". You know, those books you want to read for yourself and not because you have an obligation to review. I had just come off reading one of Bolton's other books when I started this one. I wanted to keep that goodness going and immediately started what was sure to be another fantastic book by such an amazing author. And I was correct.

I quickly fell in love with not only the characters but the plot as well. I adored Luke! I mean seriously, does Bolton ever write a bad good guy? With all her great guys, it is hard to pick a favorite. So which ever was the latest one I am reading about...he is the one. Hannah is one of those wonderful characters too. She is sweet and innocent in the ways of the world. But for someone so sheltered, she sure has faced a lot in such a short period of time. I really think that readers are going to enjoy her as much as I did.

Like I mentioned, I quickly fell in love with this storyline. I loved all the twists and turns that the story took. It had me intrigued and smitten; engrossed and enamored. There wasn't one thing I didn't like. In fact, after finishing HIDDEN SINS, I am going to read as quickly as I can through my TBR pile so I can hurry up and get to BURIED SINS.

HIDDEN SINS is a must read! I loved it, I inhaled it, and I could definitely use more Luke Fletcher in my life. 5 Stars!

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/28/2017)! 💝

[Angela Bee Bee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hidden Sins: A Romantic Suspense (Luke Fletcher Series Book 1)

The suspense and the mystery were compelling in this little freebie. But the writing and the romance weren't strong enough for me to give more stars.

Lots of gazing:
I smiled and his gaze fell to my lips. A complete swarm of butterflies crashed inside my belly the way his gaze lingered on my mouth. I found myself moistening my lips as his gaze intensified.

And the sex. I think she was a virgin and they had some very downplayed, vague sex.

I think this was her first foray into oral sex:
Unable to speak, I nodded as he moved his mouth down my belly lower and lower. His fingers moved the lace aside and my body quivered in delight. Pleasure bolted through me, and I knew now what he meant as my hips writhed to a rhythm he created.

But, hey, I'm happy she knew what he meant.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net** 

Hidden Sins might have been my favorite Karice Bolton book yet! It is the first in the new adult suspense series, about Luke Fletcher. I have only read paranormal books by Karice Bolton before, which I have enjoyed but this romantic suspense kept me on the edge of my seat! I love that this series is about Luke. It is told in dual point of view between Luke and Hannah, but it seems like Luke is going to be the main character of the series. It is about time a guy gets his own series.

Hannah is on the run from her community. For a lot of the book we just know that she knows some secrets about her hometown, but we don't know what they are. Just that they are bad enough to make her want to pack up and leave everyone and everything she has ever known. Luke runs into Hannah in a starbucks in LA. Right away, I knew he was going to be a sweetheart. I loved how nice he was to Hannah without even really knowing her. Luke runs a private security firm, and I loved the detail that Karice Bolton went into about his job. I found it all fascinating.

The romance between Luke and Hannah was slow and built up over much of the book. Nothing was rushed and the romance was so well balanced with the mystery and action in the book. Neither one took center stage over the other. As far as the action goes, there is never a dull moment in Hidden Sins. There were many attempts on Hannah's life. I would have been downright terrified in her situation. I probably would have put  my trust in Luke a little sooner than she did, but I do understand her hesitance. It has to be scary being in a new place, not knowing who you could trust.

On a side note, I have no idea if the kind of house that Hannah stayed in when she first got to LA actually exists or not, but it is an interesting concept. I think it is great how it gives people a chance to start over. Regardless of how things turned out for Hannah with it, the house idea had me thinking long after I finished the book. I am extremely interested in continuing this series. I am not quite sure where the next book, Buried Sins, is going to go, but I can't wait to find out. I know that it will feature Luke again, but I am really hoping that Hannah and Luke are the focus again. I really like the two of them together. I am also hoping that romance continues to be one of the focuses of the story just like the suspense. The combination worked really well for me.

 This review was originally posted on Book Briefs

[Kimber Wheaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review

It's been a long time since I added a book to my favorites list, and I'm so happy to say Hidden Sins is the newest addition. Sure there's action, suspense, and mystery... but what this book really has going for it-- two great characters. The type of characters I'd love to follow in a series. In fact I can't wait for book two, Buried Sins.

The story is very character-driven. If that isn't your thing, then you might be disappointed. Don't get me wrong, the underlying plot driving Hannah's flight is intriguing but takes the background to the developing relationship between Luke and Hannah. At its heart, this is a love story about two scarred individuals finding each other in spite of the harsh realities they've faced.

Hannah is amazing, but then again, so is Luke. There was just something about these characters that spoke to me. Hannah manages to maintain her innocence and not dwell in despair even after everything she's endured. Luke throws himself into his business as a coping mechanism, building a successful security firm. Both went through hell, and somehow not only survived but manage to live. It's rather inspiring.

I read this book in one sitting, not really wanting to put it down once I started. The pacing was quite good, though there were a few slow times in the middle. I found myself skimming at times, but more because I wanted to find out what happened next than anything else. The relationship was insta-attraction, leading quickly to insta-love. But when I like the characters this much, it doesn't bother me. Seriously, in Hannah's position, I'm pretty sure I would've fallen in love with Luke too.

I enjoyed the switching viewpoints between Hannah and Luke. It's always interesting to see both sides of a relationship, especially since Luke's actions come across rather stalkerish without his thoughts and reasoning. Hidden Sins has a rather steamy scene between Luke and Hannah, so I'd recommend it to those 18+. If you like character-driven romantic suspense, be sure to add it to your TBR list.

[Esther · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ratting. Okay/Good.

This was an okay read it passed the time. Liked both the heroine and hero. Plot was interesting. Pacing could have been better; slow at some points of the story and did skim somewhat.

But I am reading book two.

[~Mindy Lynn~]

Amazon Freebie 2/2/17

[Lauren Seiberling (Romance Novel Giveaways) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this down! This story was FANTASTIC!!!

Hannah was phenomenal. I loved how her character was vulnerable, and yet she wasn't a shrinking violet...she had backbone, which made her very interesting to read.

Luke was a fine specimen of alpha male. He was the first to rush head-on into danger to protect those around him and yet, he was a complete and total pushover when it came to Hannah.

This was, in my opinion, a true "romantic suspense;" while there was only one actual love scene, clearly a true loving relationship was built and developed between Hannah and Luke.

Speaking to the "suspense" aspect, the whole book was one big chase scene until the resolution in the last few chapters. I literally could not stop reading this book, and I almost danced when I reached the end to learn that book 2 is in the works! I wouldn't call this a cliffhanger, as there was a definite resolution to the story, but certain loose ends were left waaaaaaay not-tied-up and I would love to read their story!

***i received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***

[Sania · Rating 3 out of 5]

Standalone/Cliffhanger: Part of a series
Ages of H and h: h is in her 20s and H is late 20/30s
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages: No
Was There Descriptive Sex: Yes
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM: No
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup: N/A
Contains Cheating: No
Amount of Sex In The Book: A decent amount.
HEA/HFN/etc Ending: HEA
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval: Yes
Any Triggers/Warnings: Yes
>>Detail: Human Trafficking.
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author:

[Kat · Rating 2 out of 5]

she was being forced into a arranged marriage she didnt want. she followed her friend and saw her being shot and killed. she over heard them saying they killed her sister and were after her. she took off and ended up in a pick up truck that broke down outside a starbucks. her debit card wouldnt work for the coffee so a man from a security co paid for her and wants to help her with her broken truck.

she is trying to escape from the cult compound. they sent a man after her. she got the police to arrest him just in time but will only hold him 24 hrs. she met a girl at a starbucks that promised her a job in a exclusive club to make fast money.

the man in security from starbucks wants to help her. they fall in love. he is helping her get the cult she came from with the fbi .

they got the cult and her sister was alive after all.

[Jo-Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book starts the series and even though the end leaves a question, it’s not a cliff-hanger so it can be a stand-alone. Hannah had grown up in a cult-type community. But when she witnesses her best friend’s death and overhears the leaders talking about some nefarious dealings she knows she has to get out of there. She finally gets a plan together and runs for her life. She accidentally met Luke Fletcher in a coffee shop in LA. She didn’t know what a lucky break this was because he owned a security company. And she really needed his help. Even if she wouldn’t admit it because she wanted to handle things on her own. There is quite an attraction between this pair. Enough that it was hard for Luke to focus on Hannah’s protection at times. If you are looking for a suspenseful romance, try this book.

3.5 stars

[Margo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing Suspense

This book is filled with suspense, New love and friendship. Hannah is running from her community with a secret that will bring light in our everyday world. I love that this wasn't a hardcore sex storyline,more suspense and mixed with romance. I was so entrance with this story I couldn't put it down. I am looking forward to reading Luke's story next.

[Shock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cliffhanger

[Jennifer (Bad Bird Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good but not great.

Review coming soon.

[buzy_reading · Rating 1 out of 5]

On the run from a past where the sin of others threatens her life, Hannah is offered protection from a stranger.
Overall:
I had hoped to fall in love with this story and its characters. I chose this book based on my prior experience with this author. This had the premise of being a potentially good story with Hannah’s backstory. Then her situation shifted from threatening to lucky with the chance meeting of Luke and Liv. Her luck was turned around by her striking features which earned her the protection from a stranger and the foot in the door from another stranger. Starbucks is really panning out for Hannah.

Im curious about Luke’s intentions and his backstory, yet it’s not enough to keep me engrossed. I’m not surprised nor shocked by any of the circumstances taking place. Nineteen chapters in and I’m still skimming along. Reading the premise and prologue had me pumped up for a nice suspenseful story, but it’s a slow building story and taking too long to develop.
I felt these characters grew attached too quickly having some unknown ability to read another character. I was disappointed by this quick assessment. I’m troubled and confused by how easily she escaped the compound considering these are dangerous members in her community who are very aware of the comings and goings of the people.

I wish there would have been a backstory involving the community that Hannah lived at. How should came to live there? What was it like living there? How long did she live there?

I’m kind of skeptical of how easy Hannah adapted to California. California isn’t known as the friendly state and the fact that she met three individuals who were so helpful is a stretch. I live in California so I’m confused by all the generosity given to this out of towner. It’s wonderful to believe people are this kind but it’s not realistic considering every person she came in contact with had been so generous.

The circumstances of these other characters took away from the primary story of Hannah being in danger. Essentially I don’t like the way this story was executed.
Karice threw the word “danger” around, yet very little danger was shown. A few threatening words aren’t enough to warrant a dangerous situation.

Not every book is for every reader, sometimes an author writes a book that doesn’t work for a reader...this was that book for me.
I didn’t technically not DNF this book, but I did skim this book...however I didn’t read it in its entirety.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I obtained this free e-book from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. After months of planning and gathering information Hannah is on the run from the NLC (New Life Community) after witnessing the murder of her best friend. She has made it to California from the East Coast when her truck dies in the Starbucks parking lot. As the owner of his own security company Luke can tell when someone is in trouble like the gorgeous blonde in line ahead of him with the declined debit card and broken down truck with out of state license plates. He feels compelled to offer his help to the reluctant down on her luck Hannah.

[Deanna Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg! I absolutely loved it! I’m hooked the whole thing into this story…

I love how Luke looks after Hannah cause she’s on the run and scared for her life, the NLC is chasing her down in California….Hannah worked at Buttons where Sean was the boss..Until the bad guys found her at the Buttons where she worked at, to my surprise it was her father the whole time there..

Ugh! Another cliffhanger! But love how her sister came to see her yay!

Looking forward to read another book series soon…

[Sleepless · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really impressed! I had never heard of Karice Bolton but wow she knocked my socks (and other clothing) off!

An absolutely charming and incredibly romantic tale of hunky Luke and innocent and fierce Hanna! Noble and courageous Hanna meets protective Luke and learns to trust him, his sister Mia

[Amy Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just Enough Romance and Suspense

Hidden Sins is a easy fast and fun book to read. It has a taste of a little of everything. Biggest draw back is the chopped of ending in order to get you to purchase other stories in the series. The suspense wasn’t that suspenseful because you knew something was going to happen just not exactly what. But over all it was an enjoyable read.

[Lucy Appadoo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story between Hannah and Luke who quickly felt something for each other. The plot was interesting and I wanted to keep turning the pages. The characters were all diverse or quirky, and you didn't know who to trust in the story. It ended well and will follow with a deeper story with Luke in the next book. Well worth a read!

[Belletab · Rating 4 out of 5]

it was ok, nothing i am real excited about finishing the series. to be honest, the story is too clean for me, I like a little more sex in my stories.

i wasn't planning on finishing the series, but realized i already bought the first book of the series that follows this one.

Hopefully the stories will get better.

[Barbara M Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Sins

I just finished Hidden Sins. I thoroughly enjoyed this book with the suspense, which I really like. I normally read Christopher romance. I am looking forward to reading the remaining books in this series.

[Jennifer Lashbrook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

This author is new to me. I was in the mood for a romantic suspense and this popped up. It was a really good book and kept me wanting more. I also loved that their relationship was not up and down and they accepted their feelings as the came.

[Alan T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hannah & Luke

Hannah Walker is moving from New Hampshire to California in a junker 99 Sonora. When her debit card is declined at Starbucks, Luke Fletcher buys her a coffee, then bails her out when her truck won't start.

Good plotting and characterization.

[stacy dattolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The read of the week

Oh now this was a book to read...my 1st time reading this author an I must say wow..can't wait to read the rest..I tried not to read to make it last little bit longer..

[Vanessa Wyrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read

Love the suspense and background in this book. And I also live that tou could cut the chemistry between Hannah and Luke with a knife. Seems to drag you right in to their emotions. A recommended read for sure

[Sue Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Hannah was such a unique person with such a complicated unique plight. And Luke was the perfect match for helping her out. Mia was also an amazing character. This series is going to be an incredible journey!

[paulette sarelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great detective thriller

This book had more twist and turns than a roller coaster. It also had a great love story. Can't wait to read the next book and see what happens with Luke and Hannah.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hannah's Redemption

When Hanna escaped her community to flee across country, she knew that it was all up to her to expose the evil and revenge her sister's death. When Luke showed up in her life she couldn't believe anyone like him would care about a nobody like her.

[Liz Lennert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Sins

Excellent read. I highly recommend this novel to everyone that likes to read thrillers. I can't wait to read more books in this series.