What do you think?
Frozen Secrets
Past secrets can't stay buried...once the ice shatters.
Clearing her late father's name is the sole reason for Winnie Hutton's return to the hometown she'd left behind. And the only investigative help available is from the person she never wanted to see again - her ex-fiancé, Adrial Tucker. Determined to push aside their tangled emotions - for now - the reluctant partners pursue dangerous leads in the cold case Winnie's father failed to solve. A case filled with secrets, lies, corruption...and now, a killer's brutal attack. But the biggest challenge to their reunion may be Adrial's admission of a devastating truth that could shatter any chance at a new future with Winnie.
Clearing her late father's name is the sole reason for Winnie Hutton's return to the hometown she'd left behind. And the only investigative help available is from the person she never wanted to see again - her ex-fiancé, Adrial Tucker. Determined to push aside their tangled emotions - for now - the reluctant partners pursue dangerous leads in the cold case Winnie's father failed to solve. A case filled with secrets, lies, corruption...and now, a killer's brutal attack. But the biggest challenge to their reunion may be Adrial's admission of a devastating truth that could shatter any chance at a new future with Winnie.
- GenresMystery Thriller
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published August 25, 2026
About the author
Nichole Severn
229 books462 followers"First class romantic suspense!"
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author
Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.
She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.
She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author
Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.
She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.
She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have to say, after reading the blurb, this book immediately caught my attention. A cold case, a second-chance romance and a small-town investigation? That sounded like exactly my kind of read.
Winnie returns to her hometown after her father's death, hoping to settle his affairs. Once the town's respected police chief, her father never recovered after failing to solve a cold case that haunted both his career and their relationship. While sorting through his belongings, Winnie discovers information that leads her straight to the one person she never wanted to see again, her ex-fiancé, Adrial.
The investigation was easily my favorite part of the story. As Winnie and Adrial reopen the old case, they uncover long-buried secrets and quickly realize someone is willing to go to great lengths to keep the truth hidden, or was it more? That question kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Unfortunately, the romance never really worked for me.
Without getting into spoilers, the more I learned about everything that had happened between Winnie and Adrial over the years, the harder I found it to root for them as a couple. I also struggled with how Adrial's past relationship was handled. Instead of reinforcing the idea that he had experienced two meaningful relationships at different points in his life, I often found myself questioning his feelings and motivations, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in the romance.
On top of that, both of them, going back and forth, about their past/present relationship, made everything feel very repetitive and frustrating. By the end, I honestly thought both characters could have benefited from a few good sessions of therapy before trying to rekindle their relationship.
The mystery itself was enjoyable, although I did find the final reveal fairly predictable, so it didn't deliver the surprise I was hoping for.
Overall, this wasn't a bad book, just not what I expected. I also think it should've come with TW, because I usually avoid reading books where one of the MCs has a deceased partner.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin - Romance for the opportunity to read and review this book.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
Winnie returns to her hometown after her father's death, hoping to settle his affairs. Once the town's respected police chief, her father never recovered after failing to solve a cold case that haunted both his career and their relationship. While sorting through his belongings, Winnie discovers information that leads her straight to the one person she never wanted to see again, her ex-fiancé, Adrial.
The investigation was easily my favorite part of the story. As Winnie and Adrial reopen the old case, they uncover long-buried secrets and quickly realize someone is willing to go to great lengths to keep the truth hidden, or was it more? That question kept me engaged from beginning to end.
Unfortunately, the romance never really worked for me.
Without getting into spoilers, the more I learned about everything that had happened between Winnie and Adrial over the years, the harder I found it to root for them as a couple. I also struggled with how Adrial's past relationship was handled. Instead of reinforcing the idea that he had experienced two meaningful relationships at different points in his life, I often found myself questioning his feelings and motivations, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in the romance.
On top of that, both of them, going back and forth, about their past/present relationship, made everything feel very repetitive and frustrating. By the end, I honestly thought both characters could have benefited from a few good sessions of therapy before trying to rekindle their relationship.
The mystery itself was enjoyable, although I did find the final reveal fairly predictable, so it didn't deliver the surprise I was hoping for.
Overall, this wasn't a bad book, just not what I expected. I also think it should've come with TW, because I usually avoid reading books where one of the MCs has a deceased partner.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin - Romance for the opportunity to read and review this book.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
June 14, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely devoured Frozen Secrets by Nichole Severn, this was nearly a one-sitting read for me because I simply couldn't put it down.
Going into this book, I expected a thriller focused mainly on the mystery: who did what, who can be trusted, and uncovering the truth behind a cold case. And while Frozen Secrets absolutely delivers on the suspense, what surprised me most was the romance woven so naturally between the lines.
Usually, in thrillers, I find the mystery takes center stage while the characters remain secondary. But here, I truly felt like I got to know Winnie Hutton; not just as an investigator, but as a person. Her struggles with returning to a hometown she left behind, trying to fit in, and carrying the weight of her past felt incredibly real. As someone who has experienced that feeling of trying to blend in wherever you live, I connected deeply with her journey.
The second-chance dynamic between Winnie and her ex-fiancé, Adrial Tucker, was an unexpected but wonderful addition. The romance never overshadowed the mystery; instead, it added emotional depth and made me care even more about the characters and their futures.
The investigation itself kept me hooked with its layers of secrets, lies, corruption, and long-buried truths. Every time I thought I had things figured out, the story kept me turning the pages. And the ending? I wasn't necessarily expecting something different. I was simply surprised by how well it all came together. It felt satisfying and earned.
Nichole Severn did an excellent job balancing romantic suspense with an engaging mystery. If you enjoy cold cases, small-town secrets, second-chance romance, and characters with emotional depth, Frozen Secrets is absolutely worth picking up.
A gripping and addictive read that did not disappoint.
I absolutely devoured Frozen Secrets by Nichole Severn, this was nearly a one-sitting read for me because I simply couldn't put it down.
Going into this book, I expected a thriller focused mainly on the mystery: who did what, who can be trusted, and uncovering the truth behind a cold case. And while Frozen Secrets absolutely delivers on the suspense, what surprised me most was the romance woven so naturally between the lines.
Usually, in thrillers, I find the mystery takes center stage while the characters remain secondary. But here, I truly felt like I got to know Winnie Hutton; not just as an investigator, but as a person. Her struggles with returning to a hometown she left behind, trying to fit in, and carrying the weight of her past felt incredibly real. As someone who has experienced that feeling of trying to blend in wherever you live, I connected deeply with her journey.
The second-chance dynamic between Winnie and her ex-fiancé, Adrial Tucker, was an unexpected but wonderful addition. The romance never overshadowed the mystery; instead, it added emotional depth and made me care even more about the characters and their futures.
The investigation itself kept me hooked with its layers of secrets, lies, corruption, and long-buried truths. Every time I thought I had things figured out, the story kept me turning the pages. And the ending? I wasn't necessarily expecting something different. I was simply surprised by how well it all came together. It felt satisfying and earned.
Nichole Severn did an excellent job balancing romantic suspense with an engaging mystery. If you enjoy cold cases, small-town secrets, second-chance romance, and characters with emotional depth, Frozen Secrets is absolutely worth picking up.
A gripping and addictive read that did not disappoint.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great start to a new series, it has left me craving for more. Nichole Severn has the innate ability to create scenes and atmospheres to make you feel as though you are living them, I could almost feel the icy cold water of the frozen over lake, I could practically feel the biting horizontal wind that blew the powdered snow impeding my vision, she also has the ability to build tension to boiling point, this is a book that I couldn't put down.
Winnie Hutton was not in a good place, newly divorced after her husband cheated on her she had returned to Black Hollow, the place where she grew up, a place that held both wonderful and bitter memories, Winnie is alone in the world, everyone that she had loved had deserted her but she was strong, she would get through this.
Winnie's father had been a respected Chief of Police, but then he was reviled, Winnie had come to settle his affairs and clear his house, a house that had been sadly neglected, a house that was filthy, a house that was packed to the rafters with boxes of case files, files for a case that had never been solved, a case that her father had become obsessed with, a case that he followed long after his retirement and until his death, a case that Winnie would follow in the hope of clearing her father's name.
Winnie hadn't been welcomed back in town except for the last person that she expected, her ex fiancé Adrial Tucker, the fiancé that had walked out on her without explanation just before the wedding, Adrial was now a PI, would he help her solve the case that had haunted her father, would he help her find the answers to the missing Lila Mercer, or did he know more that he was telling Winnie.
This is an action packed story with mounting suspense, a few surprises and perhaps the rekindling of a lost romance
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
Winnie Hutton was not in a good place, newly divorced after her husband cheated on her she had returned to Black Hollow, the place where she grew up, a place that held both wonderful and bitter memories, Winnie is alone in the world, everyone that she had loved had deserted her but she was strong, she would get through this.
Winnie's father had been a respected Chief of Police, but then he was reviled, Winnie had come to settle his affairs and clear his house, a house that had been sadly neglected, a house that was filthy, a house that was packed to the rafters with boxes of case files, files for a case that had never been solved, a case that her father had become obsessed with, a case that he followed long after his retirement and until his death, a case that Winnie would follow in the hope of clearing her father's name.
Winnie hadn't been welcomed back in town except for the last person that she expected, her ex fiancé Adrial Tucker, the fiancé that had walked out on her without explanation just before the wedding, Adrial was now a PI, would he help her solve the case that had haunted her father, would he help her find the answers to the missing Lila Mercer, or did he know more that he was telling Winnie.
This is an action packed story with mounting suspense, a few surprises and perhaps the rekindling of a lost romance
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Frozen Secrets delivers exactly what I want from a Harlequin Intrigue title—fast‑paced suspense, emotional tension, and a mystery that refuses to stay buried. Nichole Severn sets the tone beautifully with a chilling cold‑case premise and a heroine determined to clear her father’s name, no matter what it costs her.
Winnie is easy to root for: strong, stubborn, and carrying the kind of grief that makes every step of her investigation feel personal. Pairing her with Adrial—her ex‑fiancé and the last person she ever wanted to work with—adds a delicious layer of tension. Their history simmers beneath every conversation, and the push‑and‑pull between them feels authentic rather than melodramatic.
The mystery itself is tightly woven, full of corruption, buried truths, and the kind of small‑town secrets that make you question everyone. The pacing never drags, and the stakes rise quickly once the danger becomes very real. I especially enjoyed how the emotional revelations hit just as hard as the plot twists.
As the first book in the Cold Hollow Investigations series, it sets up the world well and leaves me eager for more. If you enjoy romantic suspense with heart, danger, and a second‑chance dynamic that actually earns its payoff, this one is a satisfying, wintry thrill.
With thanks to Nichole Severn, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Winnie is easy to root for: strong, stubborn, and carrying the kind of grief that makes every step of her investigation feel personal. Pairing her with Adrial—her ex‑fiancé and the last person she ever wanted to work with—adds a delicious layer of tension. Their history simmers beneath every conversation, and the push‑and‑pull between them feels authentic rather than melodramatic.
The mystery itself is tightly woven, full of corruption, buried truths, and the kind of small‑town secrets that make you question everyone. The pacing never drags, and the stakes rise quickly once the danger becomes very real. I especially enjoyed how the emotional revelations hit just as hard as the plot twists.
As the first book in the Cold Hollow Investigations series, it sets up the world well and leaves me eager for more. If you enjoy romantic suspense with heart, danger, and a second‑chance dynamic that actually earns its payoff, this one is a satisfying, wintry thrill.
With thanks to Nichole Severn, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This is another suspenseful, exciting, edge of your seat book! Winnie, who was the police chief’s daughter and Adrial who grew up to be a police officer under Winnie’s father had been in love for years and were to get married. Winnie was heartbroken when her father told her Adrial was not going to show up for the rehearsal dinner or marry her. The two took different paths in life that did not go happily for either. When Winnie’s father passed away she came back to their small town to bury him and sell his home. By this time Adrial had come back to their small town and had opened an Investigation firm for cold cases. For some reason the town had turned their back on her father who had been looking into a cold case for the last 20 years or so and wanted nothing to do with Winnie. I was so glad Winnie went to Adrial to see why he had left years ago and what he knew about his father’s investigation so she could try to solve it. That was the beginning of someone trying to take Winnie’s life which she did not know why. It was sad that Adrial was there helping her and his life was in jeopardy too. I was on the edge of my seat so many times with the danger the two were in. There were some twists and turns that surprised me. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read the book.
August 27, 2026
‘First things first. Don’t die.’
First off, I have to say that the Harlequin Intrigues I’ve read the last couple of months have certainly upped their game from the quick ‘bathtub books’ these used to be for me. More depth, suspense and intrigue that have turned them into real page turners. That said, this one clicked those boxes but lost me in it’s execution.
Our leading couple are thrown together to investigate a twenty year old cold case that her father had been obsessed with before he died. During their investigation they are viciously attacked at the scene of the crime and again later in the book by a female assailant, who when demasked looks eerily similar to our leading lady. And then this is where things go off the rails for me. The victim in the cold case is identified as twenty year old Lila Mercer, a local nurse. Only the assailant is Lila, who was sixteen when her mother, the local nurse, is murdered and dumped in the local lake, and later identified as Lila...who is suddenly four years older and has a job? And the neighbors never raised an eyebrow about this after watching Lila for her single mother early in her life or wonder where one or the other had disappeared to or cleared up the misconception when it happened? And how would Lila and Winnie not have bumped into each other sometime in sixteen years in such a small town?
First off, I have to say that the Harlequin Intrigues I’ve read the last couple of months have certainly upped their game from the quick ‘bathtub books’ these used to be for me. More depth, suspense and intrigue that have turned them into real page turners. That said, this one clicked those boxes but lost me in it’s execution.
Our leading couple are thrown together to investigate a twenty year old cold case that her father had been obsessed with before he died. During their investigation they are viciously attacked at the scene of the crime and again later in the book by a female assailant, who when demasked looks eerily similar to our leading lady. And then this is where things go off the rails for me. The victim in the cold case is identified as twenty year old Lila Mercer, a local nurse. Only the assailant is Lila, who was sixteen when her mother, the local nurse, is murdered and dumped in the local lake, and later identified as Lila...who is suddenly four years older and has a job? And the neighbors never raised an eyebrow about this after watching Lila for her single mother early in her life or wonder where one or the other had disappeared to or cleared up the misconception when it happened? And how would Lila and Winnie not have bumped into each other sometime in sixteen years in such a small town?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Frozen Secrets was my first introduction to Nichole Severn, and after finishing this one, I have a feeling it won’t be my last. After discovering how many books she has in her catalog, I’m already looking forward to exploring more of her work.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the balance between the mystery, suspense, and romance. Lately I’ve realized that romantic suspense has become a subgenre I really enjoy, and this book reminded me why. Give me a second-chance romance wrapped inside a mystery, add some thriller elements, and I’m immediately invested.
I especially liked Winnie as a main character and found myself rooting for her throughout the story. The relationship dynamics added an extra layer of emotional investment without overshadowing the central mystery.
At around 220 pages, this was exactly the kind of quick, engaging read I love. The story moved at a steady pace, kept me interested, and never felt like it overstayed its welcome.
Overall, Frozen Secrets was an entertaining blend of suspense, romance, and mystery that kept me turning the pages. I’m excited to see where this series goes next and to read more from Nichole Severn in the future.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the balance between the mystery, suspense, and romance. Lately I’ve realized that romantic suspense has become a subgenre I really enjoy, and this book reminded me why. Give me a second-chance romance wrapped inside a mystery, add some thriller elements, and I’m immediately invested.
I especially liked Winnie as a main character and found myself rooting for her throughout the story. The relationship dynamics added an extra layer of emotional investment without overshadowing the central mystery.
At around 220 pages, this was exactly the kind of quick, engaging read I love. The story moved at a steady pace, kept me interested, and never felt like it overstayed its welcome.
Overall, Frozen Secrets was an entertaining blend of suspense, romance, and mystery that kept me turning the pages. I’m excited to see where this series goes next and to read more from Nichole Severn in the future.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First book in a new series by Ms. Severn it was a page turner. When Winnie returns home to take care of things after her father passes away it also brings up the past. She knows the town of Black Hollow holds her dad responsible for not solving a case. So she’s looking into it. It’s a case that is haunting. A man she hasn’t seen in years runs a firm known as Cold Hollow Investigations, and it just so happens to be her ex-fiancé. It’s hard yet she goes to seek his help. He doesn’t seem like he wants to help. The weird thing is he comes to her dad’s house to give her something in regard to the case. They’re both hiding things from one another. They both moved on after he left her high and dry which is very sad. They also learn things her father did also not good.
A twist at the end. Loved it.
Only one little thing I have a hard time believing it when Adrial and Winnie are at the lake doing some investigating that he gets hurt in the manner of it.
Otherwise the book is amazing!
A twist at the end. Loved it.
Only one little thing I have a hard time believing it when Adrial and Winnie are at the lake doing some investigating that he gets hurt in the manner of it.
Otherwise the book is amazing!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Winnie Hutton returns to her hometown to clean out her late father's house and to clear his name. He became a pariah in the town when he was unable to solve the murder of a girl, and his obsession with the case brought him to ruin. Winnie goes through his extensive case files, but realizes that she will need help. Unfortunately, the person who can help her is her ex-fiancée, Adrial Tucker, and working together brings back lots of memories for both of them.
I've read several titles by this author and enjoyed them all. This one, not so much. There was too much repetition of conversations in Winnie and Adrial's heads regarding their past relationship, and how that relationship ended. In addition, they both received injuries during the course of the investigation, but had a couple of last-second rescues, along with remarkable recoveries that put them in position for the same thing to happen again. It just wasn't believable, and that, combined with the repetitiveness of the couples' thoughts, led me to skip a big chunk of the middle of the book and skip to the end.
I've read several titles by this author and enjoyed them all. This one, not so much. There was too much repetition of conversations in Winnie and Adrial's heads regarding their past relationship, and how that relationship ended. In addition, they both received injuries during the course of the investigation, but had a couple of last-second rescues, along with remarkable recoveries that put them in position for the same thing to happen again. It just wasn't believable, and that, combined with the repetitiveness of the couples' thoughts, led me to skip a big chunk of the middle of the book and skip to the end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After ten years, Winnie Hutton is back in Cold Hollow , the place that she called home in her youth. Her father, former Chief of Police, has passed and she’s back to clear the house and his name. Winnie is determined to dig into an unsolved case that was the downfall of her dad.
Whom she didn’t expect to see again is Adrial Tucker. The fiancee that left town the day before their wedding, with no apparent motive and never looking back.
To clear her father’s name, she needs Adrial’s help as he is the owner of the only investigative office in town.
The reconnection and the investigation not only brings up feelings that never disappeared, but it also brings danger .
Who and why is someone trying to harm Winnie?
Can Adrial keep her safe while keeping his heart safe?
This is an emotional suspense romance filled with twists and turns.
With strong , imperfect characters, the readers will be kept on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
I was entrusted a copy of this book . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Whom she didn’t expect to see again is Adrial Tucker. The fiancee that left town the day before their wedding, with no apparent motive and never looking back.
To clear her father’s name, she needs Adrial’s help as he is the owner of the only investigative office in town.
The reconnection and the investigation not only brings up feelings that never disappeared, but it also brings danger .
Who and why is someone trying to harm Winnie?
Can Adrial keep her safe while keeping his heart safe?
This is an emotional suspense romance filled with twists and turns.
With strong , imperfect characters, the readers will be kept on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
I was entrusted a copy of this book . The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for an advanced copy of Frozen Secrets.
Winnie cannot believe she is back in her hometown of Cold Hollow. It holds a mixed bag of feelings for her because she has great memories and horrible memories of this place. She is packing up her childhood home after her father’s sudden death. He was a well respected police chief for many years but now he alienated most of the town and only a few people showed up to his funeral. All because of the murder of Lila Mercer the case he could not solve. Winnie finds boxes and boxes of notes on the case and a card of a private investigation company she decides to go see. Only to be shocked it is run by her ex fiancé Adrial. They end up teaming up to try to solve the case. But everything she thought she knew about her father comes into question.
This was so good I literally could not stop reading! I love a small town with secrets and this one absolutely delivered! It was the perfect mix of mystery, thriller, small town drama, and romance! I cannot wait for the next book!
Winnie cannot believe she is back in her hometown of Cold Hollow. It holds a mixed bag of feelings for her because she has great memories and horrible memories of this place. She is packing up her childhood home after her father’s sudden death. He was a well respected police chief for many years but now he alienated most of the town and only a few people showed up to his funeral. All because of the murder of Lila Mercer the case he could not solve. Winnie finds boxes and boxes of notes on the case and a card of a private investigation company she decides to go see. Only to be shocked it is run by her ex fiancé Adrial. They end up teaming up to try to solve the case. But everything she thought she knew about her father comes into question.
This was so good I literally could not stop reading! I love a small town with secrets and this one absolutely delivered! It was the perfect mix of mystery, thriller, small town drama, and romance! I cannot wait for the next book!
August 25, 2026
Winnie Hutton in back home to Black Hollow to clean out her father's house after his recent death. The former Police Chief once loved by the town, became a pariah because of the unsolved death of Lara Mercer. Now Winnie is back home, divorced and needing to prove herself. When she left it was because her then fiance called off the engagement party and engagement, so needing to face her past, she decides to if she can find what her father couldn't. A murderer.
But, she will need help and turns to a new company Black Hollow Investigations. But she has to start somewhere and she goes to the new investigative agency to see if they can help. The co-owner is Adrial Tucker, aka the former fiance. But coming home is never easy and sometimes secrets can kill, but wounds can heal.
AN enjoyable story with, second chances, and a surprising twist. You will not be disappointed.
I received and ARC copy from the author, but the comments are my own.
But, she will need help and turns to a new company Black Hollow Investigations. But she has to start somewhere and she goes to the new investigative agency to see if they can help. The co-owner is Adrial Tucker, aka the former fiance. But coming home is never easy and sometimes secrets can kill, but wounds can heal.
AN enjoyable story with, second chances, and a surprising twist. You will not be disappointed.
I received and ARC copy from the author, but the comments are my own.
August 30, 2026
What a thrilling story filled with murder, danger, secrets, and suspense!
After her father’s death, Winnie returns home to sort through his belongings. As a former Chief of Police, his house is filled with dusty files, notes, and evidence from old cases. Winnie soon finds herself drawn into a 20-year-old cold case that may have been far from solved.
Recently divorced and trying to figure out her next steps in life, Winnie reconnects with her former childhood boyfriend, who now runs Cold Hollow Investigations. He deserted her at a crucial time in their lives, and she never knew why.
When someone begins stalking them both, Winnie wonders if reopening the cold case has put them in danger. As they dig deeper, they uncover lies, secrets, and corruption reaching much higher than expected.
Someone wants revenge, and the danger is escalating. Can Winnie and Adrial solve the case before it’s too late, or will they become the next victims?
After her father’s death, Winnie returns home to sort through his belongings. As a former Chief of Police, his house is filled with dusty files, notes, and evidence from old cases. Winnie soon finds herself drawn into a 20-year-old cold case that may have been far from solved.
Recently divorced and trying to figure out her next steps in life, Winnie reconnects with her former childhood boyfriend, who now runs Cold Hollow Investigations. He deserted her at a crucial time in their lives, and she never knew why.
When someone begins stalking them both, Winnie wonders if reopening the cold case has put them in danger. As they dig deeper, they uncover lies, secrets, and corruption reaching much higher than expected.
Someone wants revenge, and the danger is escalating. Can Winnie and Adrial solve the case before it’s too late, or will they become the next victims?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fun, quick moving plot (and book overall at ~200 pages), with a little bit of everything (lies, deception, thrilling chases, second chance at love, etc). Because there is so much going on, the plot immediately pulled me in quickly, making me wonder what terrible secrets this town has and how will they ultimately come to life.
This is almost entirely plot driven, though at times there were some odd pacing situations. I did feel like it crossed the line to too unbelievable/over the top (e.g., after the lake scene they didn’t seem that injured or need long recovery), but I realize this is subjective. That said, I will absolutely read the next book in this mini-series since it was fun escapism.
Thanks to Nichole Severn, Harlequin Intrigue, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is almost entirely plot driven, though at times there were some odd pacing situations. I did feel like it crossed the line to too unbelievable/over the top (e.g., after the lake scene they didn’t seem that injured or need long recovery), but I realize this is subjective. That said, I will absolutely read the next book in this mini-series since it was fun escapism.
Thanks to Nichole Severn, Harlequin Intrigue, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Winnie Hutton has returned to Black Hollow after her husband cheated and divorced her. Her father was chief of police and recently passed away. She has come back to sell his house and get on with her life. But first she wants to solve the case her father was never able to solve himself and had the whole town turn against him. Winnie has to get help from her ex fiancé after finding a note from her father telling her to go to Cold Hollow Investigations. Adrial Tucker owns Cold Hollow Investigations and was supposed to marry Winnie but he took off the night before the wedding. The case uncovers secrets and deception that Winnie never knew.
Second chance for love. Secrets. Action. Mystery. Will have you hooked from the first page. I voluntarily read and reviewed this for Netgalley.
Second chance for love. Secrets. Action. Mystery. Will have you hooked from the first page. I voluntarily read and reviewed this for Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Frozen Secrets is an investigation that opens a can of worms Winnie never saw coming. Her past and present collide at full speed, along with Adrial, her former love, igniting everything in a fiery blaze.
Their chemistry burns alongside so many unresolved emotions, questions, and guilt. You get pulled into uncovering the killer's identity while eagerly waiting for the moment they finally give in to their feelings.
As the truths come to light, you're left stunned, feeling Winnie's pain and anger right alongside her. Adrial's team definitely piques your curiosity, leaving you wanting more from them. I love that love finally finds its way home and that the heart proves big enough to hold both the past and the present.
Their chemistry burns alongside so many unresolved emotions, questions, and guilt. You get pulled into uncovering the killer's identity while eagerly waiting for the moment they finally give in to their feelings.
As the truths come to light, you're left stunned, feeling Winnie's pain and anger right alongside her. Adrial's team definitely piques your curiosity, leaving you wanting more from them. I love that love finally finds its way home and that the heart proves big enough to hold both the past and the present.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I thought this book was good but a little too fast paced for me. I kind of saw the plot twist coming from piecing things together but i still think it made an interesting twist. I sometimes had a hard time following parts of the chapters. It seemed like some chapters were from
Winnie’s POV and would switch to Adrial’s so that caught me off guard a little. I would definitely read the next book in the series. I like the mystery aspect with romance but I wanted more build up and more suspense. I think I would have liked it a little more if we would have gotten more investigation of the murder before the protagonist entered the story the way they did. I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it either.
I thought this book was good but a little too fast paced for me. I kind of saw the plot twist coming from piecing things together but i still think it made an interesting twist. I sometimes had a hard time following parts of the chapters. It seemed like some chapters were from
Winnie’s POV and would switch to Adrial’s so that caught me off guard a little. I would definitely read the next book in the series. I like the mystery aspect with romance but I wanted more build up and more suspense. I think I would have liked it a little more if we would have gotten more investigation of the murder before the protagonist entered the story the way they did. I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it either.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another action-packed story! Winnie moved back home to solve a case her sheriff father was unable to solve before his death. She encounters her ex-fiancé, Andrial, which adds tension, suspicion, and mistrust. Together they join forces to solve the cold case in their city. Once again, Ms Severn created compelling characters with depth that helped the reader get involved with them and the case. The
excellent writing and detailed scenes, I was hooked from page one until the final page. Ms Severn’s action scenes are always worth the wait, and never disappointing. The details are realistic and draws the reader in to the scene. I loved this book and highly recommend. I received a complimentary ARC, but I am voluntarily offering my personal opinion.
excellent writing and detailed scenes, I was hooked from page one until the final page. Ms Severn’s action scenes are always worth the wait, and never disappointing. The details are realistic and draws the reader in to the scene. I loved this book and highly recommend. I received a complimentary ARC, but I am voluntarily offering my personal opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Frozen Secrets
Cold Hollow Investigations #1
A Harlequin Intrigue
Nichole Severn
Winnie Hutton, recovering from her divorce and dad’s passing- the once great Arthur Hutton, Chief of Police. A 20 year old unsolved murder case running him into an early grave.
Adrial Tucker, Cold Hollow Investigations, former fiancée, former police partner of Arthur.
He moved away to protect her, they both tried to move on past the devastation left in the wake. Then their paths cross again when a killer has them in their sights.
Cold and brutal.
The end snuck up on me even knowing it was not a long read going in.
This book is the first in a new series but can be read as a standalone novella with hea.
I received an arc of this book.
4 stars
Cold Hollow Investigations #1
A Harlequin Intrigue
Nichole Severn
Winnie Hutton, recovering from her divorce and dad’s passing- the once great Arthur Hutton, Chief of Police. A 20 year old unsolved murder case running him into an early grave.
Adrial Tucker, Cold Hollow Investigations, former fiancée, former police partner of Arthur.
He moved away to protect her, they both tried to move on past the devastation left in the wake. Then their paths cross again when a killer has them in their sights.
Cold and brutal.
The end snuck up on me even knowing it was not a long read going in.
This book is the first in a new series but can be read as a standalone novella with hea.
I received an arc of this book.
4 stars
August 26, 2026
An emotionally riveting kick off to a brand new series! Severn is on fire with the drama in this series starter and I loved every minute of it. We're thrown a hint of a mystery right from the start that only builds in depth as more and more is uncovered and corruption is discovered. Danger lurks just out of reach, only strike when they are east expecting it. I was hooked right from the start and loved every minute of uncovering answers in this cold case turned all too hot. The main characters are great, their past adds a lot to the story as do his secrets. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a fast paced mystery with hints of romance and loads of unexpected twists. Looking forward to more to come in the series!
July 21, 2026
After Winnie reluctantly returns to her hometown, she finds that the person best placed to help her investigation - aimed at clearing her father's name - is the last person she wants to turn to for help.
But her ex-fiance Adrial Tucker has his own secrets, as well as his own reasons for working with Winnie on this particular case. Can the two of them overcome the damage of their shared past, as well as the dangers lurking in the present?
This story combines an intriguing mystery with a very readable love story, and receives 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
But her ex-fiance Adrial Tucker has his own secrets, as well as his own reasons for working with Winnie on this particular case. Can the two of them overcome the damage of their shared past, as well as the dangers lurking in the present?
This story combines an intriguing mystery with a very readable love story, and receives 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
An emotional roller coaster of a story. Winnie escaped her home town as fast as possible after being jilted but has returned home after her father's death to sort out his affairs. Her return creates a chain reaction of unpredictable and frightening events and forces her to work with her ex finance to uncover the truth about her dad's unsolved case. Adrial was the perfect balance to Winnie and had been her protector fightimg off the bullies since they were at school. He has his own reasons not to help Winnie. But the truth and betrayal everyone tried to bury has other ideas and arrives with devastating consequences. Fast paced, action packed, emotion read that really packs a punch.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a start to this new cold case series. This first story centers around Adrial and Winnie, who had been engaged at one time. Now, Adrial has returned to town and works for Cold Hollow Investigations. Winnie's dad recently died and she's come back for the funeral and to deal with his house. But when she starts going through her father's files, her and Adrial get pulled into investigating a murder case from 20 years ago.
This is a fast-paced story filled with suspense, danger, small town bullies, and secrets. We get introduced to some of the employees of Cold Hollow Investigations and I can't wait to see where the series will go next.
This is a fast-paced story filled with suspense, danger, small town bullies, and secrets. We get introduced to some of the employees of Cold Hollow Investigations and I can't wait to see where the series will go next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great start to a new series. Winnie has returned home after her father's death to take care of things and sell the house. As she later learns her father was still looking into a death from 20 years ago. Old secrets turn up with the cold case and pieces are missing can she figure out what happened and restore her father's reputation. As she tries to solve the case things start to happen, who's trying to kill her and why. Suspense, danger, and twists and turns that only Nicole can do. I'm not sure about Winnie and Adrial if they can make a HEA hopefully, we'll see more about their relationship in the next books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a great mystery intrigue about Winnie and Adrial, her ex-fiance. The plot is good and holds the suspense.
Winnie is back to her late father's home after his death. He was shunned by not of the town as he could not solve some of the deaths and he was held responsible. as she clears his home she notices that he was working with her ex-fiance Adrial to try and find out what happened.
Adrial was a PI that had found some answers for some cold cases.
There is a lot of mystery, danger, lies and betrayal but you will have to read it to find out what happens. I highly recommend reading this book.
Winnie is back to her late father's home after his death. He was shunned by not of the town as he could not solve some of the deaths and he was held responsible. as she clears his home she notices that he was working with her ex-fiance Adrial to try and find out what happened.
Adrial was a PI that had found some answers for some cold cases.
There is a lot of mystery, danger, lies and betrayal but you will have to read it to find out what happens. I highly recommend reading this book.
August 25, 2026
What a great, emotional start to this new series! The twists and turns keep you guessing and the ending is full of emotion and forgiveness. Winnie comes back home to clear out her father's house to sell and to finish the cold case he was obsessed with. Adrial, her ex-fiance had returned and started Cold Case Investigations and agrees to work with her, though there is lots of baggage between them. As the danger grows and secrets are revealed, each realized that there were mistakes and judgements on both sides. Can they solve the case and live to find their way back to each other. Thank you to Nichole for providing this ARC and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Frozen Secrets is the first book in a new series, Cold Hollow Investigations, by Nichole Severn.
I found this to be a very entertaining page turner with lots of mystery, suspense, action, betrayal, and a second chance romance. The story keeps you hooked from the beginning with all the subterfuge, lies and secrets. As the investigation into a cold case murder progresses so does the danger targeting Winnie and Adrian. Will justice be found or more secrets buried?
I want to thank Nichole Severn for an early copy and I'm sharing my voluntary opinion.
I found this to be a very entertaining page turner with lots of mystery, suspense, action, betrayal, and a second chance romance. The story keeps you hooked from the beginning with all the subterfuge, lies and secrets. As the investigation into a cold case murder progresses so does the danger targeting Winnie and Adrian. Will justice be found or more secrets buried?
I want to thank Nichole Severn for an early copy and I'm sharing my voluntary opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has a romantic mystery/cold crime thriller. There's non-stop action and an old flame rekindled, fast paced twists and turns and surprising developments. Also, the villains' strength was almost unmatched, it gave me shivers along the spine!
Still, I couldn't help wondering if anyone can really survive so much cold and trauma in such a short time and under such serendipitous circumstances- while getting caught on the wrong foot yet again.
I like Nicole Severn's writing, I am intrigued by this new series and I will read her next book.
Still, I couldn't help wondering if anyone can really survive so much cold and trauma in such a short time and under such serendipitous circumstances- while getting caught on the wrong foot yet again.
I like Nicole Severn's writing, I am intrigued by this new series and I will read her next book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wow! This book was so intense that I basically read it in one sitting. This is a second chance romance which for me makes a fast connection more believable. The story has lots of action but it takes the time to also develop the characters. The mystery was intriguing and the killer was relentless. The amount of trauma that Winnie and Adrial endured was almost unbelievable. I did keep wanting to knock some sense into Adrial. So glad that Baxter did it metaphorically for me. Looking forward to Baxter’s story next. I already like him.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
So good! I’m used to Severn’s style but this was her best yet. A second chance at love, both parties healing from the past and finding out the truth that changes everything. It’s a love story, a mystery, a thriller all in one. Aside from the stories I always find her character names the most interesting, as someone with a unique name I get a thrill when I see others. So, this book leads us to a new series as the cold case investigation team has many partners each with a story that must be told. I was given an early copy through NetGalley and wrote my review voluntarily.
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