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Deadly Mimic
What would you risk to uncover the truth—your career, your safety… or your heart?
If it bleeds, it leads. And right now, the city is bleeding.
As the face of the evening news, I’ve built my career exposing corruption and dragging truth into the light. When a string of meticulously staged murders begins to dominate the headlines, I do what I’ve always done—I report. I analyze. I connect the dots no one else wants to see.
I’m the one who gives him a name.
The Auditor.
Because he doesn’t just kill—he leaves behind records, ledgers, and proof. He believes he’s delivering justice. And once I say his name on air, he knows I see him.
Worse—he knows I’m listening.
The FBI certainly is.
Agent Elliot Brewster is assigned to protect me—and to silence me. He believes the killer is one of my viewers, responding to my broadcasts in real time. His solution is simple: pull me off air and lock me in a safe house before I provoke another body.
But silence doesn’t stop a man like this.
It invites him closer.
As the murders escalate and the time between bodies collapses, it becomes terrifyingly clear the Auditor isn’t just watching me—he’s answering me. And when someone from my inner circle is brutally taken, the message is unmistakable:
This is no longer just a story.
It’s a conversation.
Trapped between a killer who wants my attention and an FBI agent whose control—and restraint—are unraveling, I’m forced into a dangerous truth:
The only way this ends…is if I finish it.
Even if it costs me everything.
Because when accountability becomes obsession, the truth isn’t the most dangerous thing anymore.
*Please note: This novel is Book One of a duet and ends on a cliffhanger. It is a psychological thriller with strong romantic elements, containing violence, murder, obsession, and explicit content intended for mature readers. The author encourages readers to review the foreword for important context and content guidance. Recommended for readers who enjoy crime-driven thrillers, dark romantic tension, and morally complex relationships.
If it bleeds, it leads. And right now, the city is bleeding.
As the face of the evening news, I’ve built my career exposing corruption and dragging truth into the light. When a string of meticulously staged murders begins to dominate the headlines, I do what I’ve always done—I report. I analyze. I connect the dots no one else wants to see.
I’m the one who gives him a name.
The Auditor.
Because he doesn’t just kill—he leaves behind records, ledgers, and proof. He believes he’s delivering justice. And once I say his name on air, he knows I see him.
Worse—he knows I’m listening.
The FBI certainly is.
Agent Elliot Brewster is assigned to protect me—and to silence me. He believes the killer is one of my viewers, responding to my broadcasts in real time. His solution is simple: pull me off air and lock me in a safe house before I provoke another body.
But silence doesn’t stop a man like this.
It invites him closer.
As the murders escalate and the time between bodies collapses, it becomes terrifyingly clear the Auditor isn’t just watching me—he’s answering me. And when someone from my inner circle is brutally taken, the message is unmistakable:
This is no longer just a story.
It’s a conversation.
Trapped between a killer who wants my attention and an FBI agent whose control—and restraint—are unraveling, I’m forced into a dangerous truth:
The only way this ends…is if I finish it.
Even if it costs me everything.
Because when accountability becomes obsession, the truth isn’t the most dangerous thing anymore.
*Please note: This novel is Book One of a duet and ends on a cliffhanger. It is a psychological thriller with strong romantic elements, containing violence, murder, obsession, and explicit content intended for mature readers. The author encourages readers to review the foreword for important context and content guidance. Recommended for readers who enjoy crime-driven thrillers, dark romantic tension, and morally complex relationships.
- GenresDark
370 pages, Paperback
Published February 26, 2026
39 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Heather Long
268 books2,297 followersI love books. Not just a little bit, but a lot. Books were my best friends when I was growing up. Books didn’t care if I was new to a town or to a class. They were always there, my trustiest of companions. Until they turned on me and said I had to write them.
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
I can tell you that my own personal happily ever after included writing books. I’ve always said that an HEA is a work in progress. It’s true in my marriage, my friendships, and in my career. I am constantly nurturing my muse as we dive into new tales, new tropes, new characters and more.
After seventeen years back in Texas, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest in search of seasons, new experiences, and new geography. I can’t wait to discover what life (and my muse) have in store for me.
Maybe writing was always my destiny and romance my fate. After all, my grandmother wasn’t a fan of picture books and used to read me her Harlequin Romance novels.
Friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, friends to enemies to lovers, you name it, I love them and love to write them. I started with Earth Witches Aren’t Easy, the first in the Chance Monroe trilogy, but my characters and I have traveled a long way since I created that urban fantasy world.
One of the series I hear my readers recommend the most is the Untouchable series followed in quick succession by the Vandals, and that just delights me. No lie, whenever one of my readers brings up my wolves, I do a little a fist pump.
I’m active on social media, and I love hearing from readers. Feel free to tag me with a question about any of my books, or just say hi!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is full of tension. Mallory is a driven, intelligent, and hard-working woman. She is a reporter who discovers a pattern in decades of murder victims and names the killer The Auditor on air. She theorizes that he sees his killings as justice. The Auditor becomes obsessed with her because she understands and is listening to his message. He admires her intelligence. As she continues to report on her story, a conversation opens up between her and the killer.
Once she names him, Mallory becomes the center of everyone's attention. Not only are her viewers watching, but her network thinks they can use her to increase their ratings, her friends/coworkers want to keep her safe, and she has become the FBI's biggest break in the case. Everyone has their own opinions and motivations to try and control her and her actions. Mallory has no interest in being controlled, but she will try to make reasonable compromises with her network and law enforcement in order to keep herself safe and help catch a murderer.
Mallory has to navigate the conversation between her and The Auditor very carefully. Her message has to be clear, and she is constantly trying to think several steps ahead. Waiting for a reaction from The Auditor creates a lot of nervous tension through the entire book. There is also romantic tension between Mallory and the FBI agent in charge of her safety, Brewster, and her co-worker Flint. A relationship between her and Brewster would be a mistake and could complicate the case, but trapped together in a safe house, their chemistry is difficult to escape. Mallory and Flint have been coworkers and friends for a long time. They have kept their relationship mainly professional to not complicate their jobs. Brewster coming into the picture may cause enough jealousy for Flint to want their relationship to change. Despite her personal life, Mallory is determined to control her story and her conversation with The Auditor, and he is just as determined to make sure no one gets between them.
Once she names him, Mallory becomes the center of everyone's attention. Not only are her viewers watching, but her network thinks they can use her to increase their ratings, her friends/coworkers want to keep her safe, and she has become the FBI's biggest break in the case. Everyone has their own opinions and motivations to try and control her and her actions. Mallory has no interest in being controlled, but she will try to make reasonable compromises with her network and law enforcement in order to keep herself safe and help catch a murderer.
Mallory has to navigate the conversation between her and The Auditor very carefully. Her message has to be clear, and she is constantly trying to think several steps ahead. Waiting for a reaction from The Auditor creates a lot of nervous tension through the entire book. There is also romantic tension between Mallory and the FBI agent in charge of her safety, Brewster, and her co-worker Flint. A relationship between her and Brewster would be a mistake and could complicate the case, but trapped together in a safe house, their chemistry is difficult to escape. Mallory and Flint have been coworkers and friends for a long time. They have kept their relationship mainly professional to not complicate their jobs. Brewster coming into the picture may cause enough jealousy for Flint to want their relationship to change. Despite her personal life, Mallory is determined to control her story and her conversation with The Auditor, and he is just as determined to make sure no one gets between them.
March 1, 2026
*Romance
*Suspense/Thriller
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Serial unaliver
*Journalist FMC
*FBI case
*Potential Love Interest/s
*Super Slow Burn
*Book 1 / 2
Drastically different
This is different to Heather’s previous books in terms of the bulk of the content - it’s very much focused on the thriller element of the serial unaliver case and the suspense around his connection with our FMC. However there are some elements of her typical intense chemistry with slooooow burn fire between characters (although it’s not clear who that romance will be with in this one which is an interesting dynamic 🤔)
Mallory is a strong FMC she knows her own mind and is driven to deliver the story, she can come across a tad callous but it’s all in the name of the story. There are snapshot chapters from the Villain which bring a lot of questions and you can see how he’s intrigued by her 😳 then there’s Flint and Brewster to very opposing personalities adding to the drama and romantic suspense.
The only thing I found with this book was the language was quite convoluted at times, almost overly poetic discussions (particularly between Brewster and Mallory) making it difficult to understand the point they were trying to make, which kind of threw me out of a reading flow with it.
I would still read the next one though as the story was gripping enough 🙂
*Suspense/Thriller
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Serial unaliver
*Journalist FMC
*FBI case
*Potential Love Interest/s
*Super Slow Burn
*Book 1 / 2
Drastically different
This is different to Heather’s previous books in terms of the bulk of the content - it’s very much focused on the thriller element of the serial unaliver case and the suspense around his connection with our FMC. However there are some elements of her typical intense chemistry with slooooow burn fire between characters (although it’s not clear who that romance will be with in this one which is an interesting dynamic 🤔)
Mallory is a strong FMC she knows her own mind and is driven to deliver the story, she can come across a tad callous but it’s all in the name of the story. There are snapshot chapters from the Villain which bring a lot of questions and you can see how he’s intrigued by her 😳 then there’s Flint and Brewster to very opposing personalities adding to the drama and romantic suspense.
The only thing I found with this book was the language was quite convoluted at times, almost overly poetic discussions (particularly between Brewster and Mallory) making it difficult to understand the point they were trying to make, which kind of threw me out of a reading flow with it.
I would still read the next one though as the story was gripping enough 🙂
February 28, 2026
Let me start by saying I had no idea what to expect going into this book as it was different in Heather's words. A dark romance vibes duet with pretty much no romance until book 2. It was AMAZING!!!! It had Clarice Sterlings and James Patterson vibes but in a distinct Heather Long way.
Mallory is an important news reporter for a major network. She's spent years cultivating her image and earning her top spot in investigative journalism. She is the one that discovers a common thread in the Auditors murders that link various deaths to him catching the attention of the FBI
The Auditor as Mallory dubs him is a serial killer who takes lives to balance things as he exposes people's white collar crimes by leaving audits, so to speak, along side their dead bodies. He is judge, jury and executioner.
Brewster is the FBI agent assigned to protect Mallory. He's seasoned, smart, professional and detached, until he isn't.
This story had the wheels turning from the first chapter. I couldn't devour this fast enough and that ending had me screaming into the void and racking my brain. I can't wait for answers in book 2 of this thrilling duet. Highly recommend.
Mallory is an important news reporter for a major network. She's spent years cultivating her image and earning her top spot in investigative journalism. She is the one that discovers a common thread in the Auditors murders that link various deaths to him catching the attention of the FBI
The Auditor as Mallory dubs him is a serial killer who takes lives to balance things as he exposes people's white collar crimes by leaving audits, so to speak, along side their dead bodies. He is judge, jury and executioner.
Brewster is the FBI agent assigned to protect Mallory. He's seasoned, smart, professional and detached, until he isn't.
This story had the wheels turning from the first chapter. I couldn't devour this fast enough and that ending had me screaming into the void and racking my brain. I can't wait for answers in book 2 of this thrilling duet. Highly recommend.
March 3, 2026
If it bleeds, it leads. Mallory McBride is the face of news in Chicago. She has built her career exposing corruption and covering the hard stories. She's the one who connected a string of murders to uncover and name a prolific serial killer. The Auditor. A killer, but also a record keeper. He is silencing those cheating the system and leaving the proof along with the body count. Now he knows she's listening; she understands. It's a conversation. That's when the FBI steps in to protect her, to silence her. But silence isn't the answer.
This is a deliberate, slow-burning thriller. The characters are career-driven, determined, and intense. There are no warm and fuzzy moments, but plenty of tension. This is not my favorite book by the author, but I did appreciate it and will eagerly continue with the series. I found it indulgently wordy and would have enjoyed it more had it been pared down. I get it, the phrases independently carried weight (they hit harder than expected), but strung together, they weighed down the internal and external dialogue instead of building up the tension. This was problematic mostly between Mallory and Brewster, her FBI Handler and it lessened my enjoyment of the two. I preferred Deadline Daddy Flint. I did enjoy the intelligence of the characters, that each is excellent at their job, and the fact that they each represented a differing view. While their focus is all on the same story, their approaches are vastly different and often opposing. You have the Auditor, the actual murderer, Mallory, the Reporter trying to break the story, Brewster, the FBI Agent trying to break the case and find the murderer, and Flint, the Editor trying to balance network concerns with his need to keep Mallory safe. Add in the competitiveness between Brewster and Flint over Mallory, and tensions are high. This book is like a game board with pieces in precise places, each playing their own game. We know the rules, but we don't have all of the players or pieces, do we?
This is a deliberate, slow-burning thriller. The characters are career-driven, determined, and intense. There are no warm and fuzzy moments, but plenty of tension. This is not my favorite book by the author, but I did appreciate it and will eagerly continue with the series. I found it indulgently wordy and would have enjoyed it more had it been pared down. I get it, the phrases independently carried weight (they hit harder than expected), but strung together, they weighed down the internal and external dialogue instead of building up the tension. This was problematic mostly between Mallory and Brewster, her FBI Handler and it lessened my enjoyment of the two. I preferred Deadline Daddy Flint. I did enjoy the intelligence of the characters, that each is excellent at their job, and the fact that they each represented a differing view. While their focus is all on the same story, their approaches are vastly different and often opposing. You have the Auditor, the actual murderer, Mallory, the Reporter trying to break the story, Brewster, the FBI Agent trying to break the case and find the murderer, and Flint, the Editor trying to balance network concerns with his need to keep Mallory safe. Add in the competitiveness between Brewster and Flint over Mallory, and tensions are high. This book is like a game board with pieces in precise places, each playing their own game. We know the rules, but we don't have all of the players or pieces, do we?
Review of advance copy received from Author
~ arc review
this is a switch from heather’s romances and i am not complaining!
i enjoyed this story a lot because i was just as curious as mallory about the auditor and i loved how they had their own language, how she got him but most importantly how he got her and was a step ahead of everyone else.
mallory is a tough fmc for me to enjoy at first because she is stubborn, arrogant and only thinks about herself and the story she needs reporting — which i get, bc she is a journalist first and foremost, but in her vulnerable (if we can call it that) and her more down to earth moments, i was able to appreciate her. i’m hoping to like her better in the sequel lol not gonna lie
brewster and carter are their own brand of difficult as well but i can appreciate that because if i want to punch them or just kill them, it means the writing was good… brewster is harder to like than carter but i know i’ll get there eventually.
the auditor’s chapters were my favorite part of the book though… i love seeing how his brain works, how confident he is with things, how he demands everyone to just listen to him and how, by the end of the book, you start to question yourself if he really is all that bad or just simply misunderstood
i think besides the characters having personalities that kinda chafed me, the other thing that makes me give this a 4 is that the writing felt too poetic or “complex” at times… like the characters were almost speaking in a code that i wasnt privy to so it left me kinda confused 😃
this is a switch from heather’s romances and i am not complaining!
i enjoyed this story a lot because i was just as curious as mallory about the auditor and i loved how they had their own language, how she got him but most importantly how he got her and was a step ahead of everyone else.
mallory is a tough fmc for me to enjoy at first because she is stubborn, arrogant and only thinks about herself and the story she needs reporting — which i get, bc she is a journalist first and foremost, but in her vulnerable (if we can call it that) and her more down to earth moments, i was able to appreciate her. i’m hoping to like her better in the sequel lol not gonna lie
brewster and carter are their own brand of difficult as well but i can appreciate that because if i want to punch them or just kill them, it means the writing was good… brewster is harder to like than carter but i know i’ll get there eventually.
the auditor’s chapters were my favorite part of the book though… i love seeing how his brain works, how confident he is with things, how he demands everyone to just listen to him and how, by the end of the book, you start to question yourself if he really is all that bad or just simply misunderstood
i think besides the characters having personalities that kinda chafed me, the other thing that makes me give this a 4 is that the writing felt too poetic or “complex” at times… like the characters were almost speaking in a code that i wasnt privy to so it left me kinda confused 😃
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book just kept me hooked from the beginning.
It didn't feel like there was much going on but there was. Oh there very much was.
There was a lot that was being said. But there was a lot that was being unsaid. It was dark and gritty and just tense. So much tension. Not just in the air. But the chemistry between Mallory and Agent Brewster. And also Mallory and Flint Carter. Holy ish. I need a cold shower and my AC on just reading any kind of scene between Mallory and Flint. *fans self*.
This was a Lifetime Movie Network kind of movie. And I don't mean that in the Hallmark type actors with a cellphone camera type movie. This is the movie that would be found on streaming only with nothing heavily redacted. If you know what I mean. Like I said earlier; dark, gritty, suspenseful. It wasn't only showing. It was telling. It was feeling. You know what this is? This is a Criminal Minds episode. But sadly there's no Dr Spencer Reid or Penelope Garcia here to help us.
What I also loved about this was that it also featured POVs from The Auditor. This was definitely a welcome change as we see that he isn't arrogant. He is confident and secure but perhaps there's more to him than these random kills. It cannot be random for no reason. And Mallory is that liaison between the general public and him. I don't think he is demanding attention. I think he's wanting to be heard. And that is something completely different.
And I will wait here impatiently for book 2.
It didn't feel like there was much going on but there was. Oh there very much was.
There was a lot that was being said. But there was a lot that was being unsaid. It was dark and gritty and just tense. So much tension. Not just in the air. But the chemistry between Mallory and Agent Brewster. And also Mallory and Flint Carter. Holy ish. I need a cold shower and my AC on just reading any kind of scene between Mallory and Flint. *fans self*.
This was a Lifetime Movie Network kind of movie. And I don't mean that in the Hallmark type actors with a cellphone camera type movie. This is the movie that would be found on streaming only with nothing heavily redacted. If you know what I mean. Like I said earlier; dark, gritty, suspenseful. It wasn't only showing. It was telling. It was feeling. You know what this is? This is a Criminal Minds episode. But sadly there's no Dr Spencer Reid or Penelope Garcia here to help us.
What I also loved about this was that it also featured POVs from The Auditor. This was definitely a welcome change as we see that he isn't arrogant. He is confident and secure but perhaps there's more to him than these random kills. It cannot be random for no reason. And Mallory is that liaison between the general public and him. I don't think he is demanding attention. I think he's wanting to be heard. And that is something completely different.
And I will wait here impatiently for book 2.
February 27, 2026
Deadly Mimic by Heather Long First book in Fatal Attractions Duet
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶💀💀
I love Heather Long's books, stories and her characters but Deadly Mimic is one of her harder reads for me. Don't get me wrong, its exciting, mysterious and great characters. But my ADHD brain found the short structured sentences, which are to imply impact, difficult. Slowly they dwindled leaving a faster paced romance, mysterious messages and intrigue.
This book is heavy in who dunnit and what nots. So don't expect answers, clarity or understanding its all optics and narrative. Mallory, Agent Brewster and Flint face the unknown by sticking to what they know, and do it well. Crossing lines is the theme here. After that cliffhanger I will be reading the next book.
Tropes
Cliffhanger. Forced Proximity. Slow burn to explosive, but uncertain. Protective mmcs. Morally complex. Crime drama. Psychological thriller.
Quotes
“If you’re going to challenge me, I’d prefer you do it with your eyes open, because mine will be Mallory. They will be open and on you.”
“That,” he said quietly, “is you crossing into dangerous territory.” “Is that a warning?” I asked, breath shallow. His gaze dropped— to my mouth. Stayed there. “No,” he said. “That’s me already there.” And then he kissed me.
“You’re willing to lose your job for this?” I asked, softer than I meant to. His gaze held mine. “I’m willing to lose my job to keep you alive.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶💀💀
I love Heather Long's books, stories and her characters but Deadly Mimic is one of her harder reads for me. Don't get me wrong, its exciting, mysterious and great characters. But my ADHD brain found the short structured sentences, which are to imply impact, difficult. Slowly they dwindled leaving a faster paced romance, mysterious messages and intrigue.
This book is heavy in who dunnit and what nots. So don't expect answers, clarity or understanding its all optics and narrative. Mallory, Agent Brewster and Flint face the unknown by sticking to what they know, and do it well. Crossing lines is the theme here. After that cliffhanger I will be reading the next book.
Tropes
Cliffhanger. Forced Proximity. Slow burn to explosive, but uncertain. Protective mmcs. Morally complex. Crime drama. Psychological thriller.
Quotes
“If you’re going to challenge me, I’d prefer you do it with your eyes open, because mine will be Mallory. They will be open and on you.”
“That,” he said quietly, “is you crossing into dangerous territory.” “Is that a warning?” I asked, breath shallow. His gaze dropped— to my mouth. Stayed there. “No,” he said. “That’s me already there.” And then he kissed me.
“You’re willing to lose your job for this?” I asked, softer than I meant to. His gaze held mine. “I’m willing to lose my job to keep you alive.”
March 2, 2026
What just happened?!?
This book was a great mix of cat and mouse, psychological thriller and a sliver of Criminal Minds. Mallory is a reporter - one that reminds you of Anderson Cooper: reports the truth without bias, jumps into danger to get what she needs and intelligent in navigating said dangerous waters. But she's a bit of a control freak, can't let it go and wants to always have the upper hand. Then there's Flint, the news director. Smart, was a Mallory before but life has taught him to be more cautious, that there's more than just a story to life. In love with Mallory? Not a 100% certain but he's protective and despite going toe to toe with Flint Mallory values his opinion.
At the beginning of this story we realize that Mallory has broken a story about a serial killer who is masquerading under vigilante justice, dubbed The Auditor. They also happen to be obsessed with the reporter and they invite Mallory to join the game. This brings in Brewster of the FBI, control is his first, middle and last name but this is his case, one he's been working on for years.
All of this is ripe for anxiety inducing interactions and trying to guess who The Auditor might be. We get twists, surprises that hurt and that ending makes you scream WHAT?!?
If you enjoy thrillers with nuances I highly recommend this book but beware it ends on a cliffhanger.
This book was a great mix of cat and mouse, psychological thriller and a sliver of Criminal Minds. Mallory is a reporter - one that reminds you of Anderson Cooper: reports the truth without bias, jumps into danger to get what she needs and intelligent in navigating said dangerous waters. But she's a bit of a control freak, can't let it go and wants to always have the upper hand. Then there's Flint, the news director. Smart, was a Mallory before but life has taught him to be more cautious, that there's more than just a story to life. In love with Mallory? Not a 100% certain but he's protective and despite going toe to toe with Flint Mallory values his opinion.
At the beginning of this story we realize that Mallory has broken a story about a serial killer who is masquerading under vigilante justice, dubbed The Auditor. They also happen to be obsessed with the reporter and they invite Mallory to join the game. This brings in Brewster of the FBI, control is his first, middle and last name but this is his case, one he's been working on for years.
All of this is ripe for anxiety inducing interactions and trying to guess who The Auditor might be. We get twists, surprises that hurt and that ending makes you scream WHAT?!?
If you enjoy thrillers with nuances I highly recommend this book but beware it ends on a cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book reads like your favourite psychological thriller. The pacing is unhurried, at some points even slow, with an unshakeable sense of urgency and packed with action at the same time. If I knew these people in real life, I’d be terrified of them. The mind games, the constant psychological plays and assessments, would never let me get a breath in. It follows you into your dreams. Nevertheless, this makes it all the more desirable to read as it grabs you by the throat and pulls you along.
The interpersonal dynamics are so interesting as you don’t know for sure what to make of them. Mallory and Flint have that ‘will they won’t they’ coworker chemistry, whereas with Brewster it’s more of a forced proximity chemistry - but both are undeniable. The Auditor/Unsub/whatever you want to call him, is a wonderful opponent, incredibly smart and well-paced. All four main characters have a begrudging respect for each other as well, something that doesn’t necessarily make all that much sense but it works really well. This story is a psychological chess match and oh lord, do I know nothing about chess - but on the other hand, I cannot help but immerse myself. Book two cannot come fast enough!
The interpersonal dynamics are so interesting as you don’t know for sure what to make of them. Mallory and Flint have that ‘will they won’t they’ coworker chemistry, whereas with Brewster it’s more of a forced proximity chemistry - but both are undeniable. The Auditor/Unsub/whatever you want to call him, is a wonderful opponent, incredibly smart and well-paced. All four main characters have a begrudging respect for each other as well, something that doesn’t necessarily make all that much sense but it works really well. This story is a psychological chess match and oh lord, do I know nothing about chess - but on the other hand, I cannot help but immerse myself. Book two cannot come fast enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t think I’ve been this excited or personally obsessed with a story from Heather Long as much as this one. And that is a strong statement- considering I’ve read at least 35 books by this author.
Not only do these characters have chemistry and banter that I absolutely love- they have this intellect that I find attractive as he!l.
Mallory (FMC) - news anchor and mastermind behind discovering the link in the kills. Flint (news director) - boss to Mallory and wants to protect her, support her, and even admires her. Agent Elliot Brewster - wants to use her to catch the killer, loves her intelligence, admires her work ethic and finds her IDC- sassy attitude attractive.
The Killer - loves her eyes on him, hates the others taking her away from his view, and really doesn’t want her attention off him. (I’m obsessed with him😈)
Lines get blurred - things get said - but in the end trying not to die while solving this mystery is Mallory’s biggest challenge.
Wow - does this book keep you on the edge of your seat. The end has me dying for the next book. I’m so hooked & I need answers.
Tropes:
😍Slow-Burn
😮💨Banter/Chemistry
🔎Thriller / Mystery
👀Stalker
👩❤️👨Forced Proximity
FBI
📺News reporter
Not only do these characters have chemistry and banter that I absolutely love- they have this intellect that I find attractive as he!l.
Mallory (FMC) - news anchor and mastermind behind discovering the link in the kills. Flint (news director) - boss to Mallory and wants to protect her, support her, and even admires her. Agent Elliot Brewster - wants to use her to catch the killer, loves her intelligence, admires her work ethic and finds her IDC- sassy attitude attractive.
The Killer - loves her eyes on him, hates the others taking her away from his view, and really doesn’t want her attention off him. (I’m obsessed with him😈)
Lines get blurred - things get said - but in the end trying not to die while solving this mystery is Mallory’s biggest challenge.
Wow - does this book keep you on the edge of your seat. The end has me dying for the next book. I’m so hooked & I need answers.
Tropes:
😍Slow-Burn
😮💨Banter/Chemistry
🔎Thriller / Mystery
👀Stalker
👩❤️👨Forced Proximity
FBI
📺News reporter
February 27, 2026
Heather Long did a fantastic job setting up the tension in this dark thriller. Our FMC is Mallory, a news journalist who puts together the pieces of a serial killer she named as The Auditor. Enter in FBI, Brewster and her new producer, Flint and you get two guys who want to protect her. Mallory is a strong, smart and will not be silenced. The verbal sparring between these characters is top tier! Throughout the story Heather keeps you on your toes with guessing what directions these characters are going in. Flint just wants to protect Mallory, Brewster's motivation to catch The Auditor, but also protect is also showcased, and Mallory desires to not be kept out of the conversation. She wants to have the dialogue with The Auditor. And The Auditor, well you'll see. This is part 1 of a duet and the answers are still coming. I can't wait to find out what happens next!
March 3, 2026
I'm a big fan of Heather's romances, the Untouchable series will forever have my heart, but I was super intrigued to stumble across this tension filled psychological thriller as it is such a drastic change from what I have come to expect from her.
Overall, I'm not much of a thriller girly, but again, I enjoy Heather's work, so figured I would give it a whirl. The premise definitely has me intriged, but lost momentum as the story progressed and I found my attention drifting. The pacing is a tad too slow, which didn't help, but I am intrigued to see how this plays out in book 2.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- crime driven psychological thriller
- journalist + FBI agent + serial killer/stalker
(TBD on who the actual love interest is lol)
- morally complex
- forced proximity
- tension filled slow burn
Overall, I'm not much of a thriller girly, but again, I enjoy Heather's work, so figured I would give it a whirl. The premise definitely has me intriged, but lost momentum as the story progressed and I found my attention drifting. The pacing is a tad too slow, which didn't help, but I am intrigued to see how this plays out in book 2.
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧:
- crime driven psychological thriller
- journalist + FBI agent + serial killer/stalker
(TBD on who the actual love interest is lol)
- morally complex
- forced proximity
- tension filled slow burn
February 27, 2026
"Meaning had to live between the words, not inside them. Sometimes it wasn’t about what you said—it was about proving you were listening."
4🌟🌟🌟🌟
1🌶
This is a very plot heavy, story/world building book, that centers on journalist Mallory, her connection to a serial she named The Auditor, and the two men working to protect her in different ways. I love how strong and relentless Mallory is, she is dogged in her pursuit of the story, and you feel that while reading. Brewster and Flint are both interesting individuals with very different takes on how Mallory should be contained/protected. I enjoyed the Auditor chapters and getting a glimpse into his head. I'm looking forward to the second book and what follows that cliffhanger.
4🌟🌟🌟🌟
1🌶
This is a very plot heavy, story/world building book, that centers on journalist Mallory, her connection to a serial she named The Auditor, and the two men working to protect her in different ways. I love how strong and relentless Mallory is, she is dogged in her pursuit of the story, and you feel that while reading. Brewster and Flint are both interesting individuals with very different takes on how Mallory should be contained/protected. I enjoyed the Auditor chapters and getting a glimpse into his head. I'm looking forward to the second book and what follows that cliffhanger.
March 1, 2026
Let me state, i had to take breaks because this book was pretty intense. I love Heather's writing, and I knew, just knew this was going to me stellar. Already in most of her books she injects some sort of suspense. This just took it up a notch...or 12. The characters are smartly written. the plot is intense, and I feel like this is very plot heavy. I love it, I was entranced by this book, and I love me some true crime.
We have to wait for the second book to get to the bottom of this, and I cannot wait for what I am sure will be a wild ride. The book is told in a first person pov, which I love and I really appreciate becuase you can get into the characters mind. "the Auditor" is scary as all get out, not even going to lie. Also, please someone get this made into a movie. Kthanks.
We have to wait for the second book to get to the bottom of this, and I cannot wait for what I am sure will be a wild ride. The book is told in a first person pov, which I love and I really appreciate becuase you can get into the characters mind. "the Auditor" is scary as all get out, not even going to lie. Also, please someone get this made into a movie. Kthanks.
March 2, 2026
brilliant read
This is no light hearted read, and the author does what she does best, giving us a storyline that grips your attention and refuses to let go, characters that are likeable for so many different reasons & a plot that will keep your mind racing with the mystery of it all. So many different ways this story could go, and yet out of everything I imagined after reading the blurb, it was so much better. It’s a phenomenal read and I am desperate for the next book. I love how fierce and strong Mallory is, she’s amazing and I can’t wait to find out how her story unfolds. I’ve got a feeling that these characters will live rent free in my mind for a long while. It’s phenomenal and is definitely one of the best books I’ve read in a really long time.
This is no light hearted read, and the author does what she does best, giving us a storyline that grips your attention and refuses to let go, characters that are likeable for so many different reasons & a plot that will keep your mind racing with the mystery of it all. So many different ways this story could go, and yet out of everything I imagined after reading the blurb, it was so much better. It’s a phenomenal read and I am desperate for the next book. I love how fierce and strong Mallory is, she’s amazing and I can’t wait to find out how her story unfolds. I’ve got a feeling that these characters will live rent free in my mind for a long while. It’s phenomenal and is definitely one of the best books I’ve read in a really long time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Get ready for a very tense, wild ride! To say you never knew what will happen next, or by whom, is an understatement. I loved it! Be warned, though, it is a book one and ends on a huge cliffhanger. I’m going to go find the author and follow her around until she releases book 2, I swear!
Deadly Mimic is very intense. We are introduced to the main characters, of the moment, and they are as different and deep as it gets. Mallory McBryan is the heroine and she is strong, and stubborn, and fights for her work. And it is ALLLLLLLLL about her work! The men around her are varied in their personalities but without then, there wouldn’t be a story. Can’t wait for book 2! I have to find out what happens next.
Deadly Mimic is very intense. We are introduced to the main characters, of the moment, and they are as different and deep as it gets. Mallory McBryan is the heroine and she is strong, and stubborn, and fights for her work. And it is ALLLLLLLLL about her work! The men around her are varied in their personalities but without then, there wouldn’t be a story. Can’t wait for book 2! I have to find out what happens next.
February 27, 2026
Ahhhh What have I just read. I haven't read a book like this in what feels like forever. It is filled with plenty of suspense and omg moments. Mallory is just so captivating and strong , I just love her. I am keeping everything crossed this book will be a why choose , I am so intrigued by all the guys and I just want Mallory to have them all , why would she pick just one. This book was such an incredible read that I devoured it in one sitting. I am sat here with all sorts of theories running through my mind. Only thing I can say now is , when's the next book out. Five Huge Stars that I wish I could rate more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adore a dark thriller. This story, in my opinion, reminds me of a chess game, with all its thoughtful and well-played-out moves. It really boggled my brain on how Brewster (FBI) and Mallory (news reporter) were able to figure out what The Auditor’s next action might be.
If you crave a dark thriller with a twisted plot, shock factor, uber slow burn, and a story that will leave you gritting your teeth and keep you up at night, pick up this book.
🐌 spice then 🎇
📰 newsroom
🕵️ FBI
☠️ killer
🖤 Forced proximity
If you crave a dark thriller with a twisted plot, shock factor, uber slow burn, and a story that will leave you gritting your teeth and keep you up at night, pick up this book.
🐌 spice then 🎇
📰 newsroom
🕵️ FBI
☠️ killer
🖤 Forced proximity
Review of advance copy received from Author
The devil is in the details of this book. Heather Long is surgically precise with the wording, flow, and slips of details in this book. The tension doesn’t ebb and flow - it’s a live wire through the whole book, never allowing for a full breath to be taken by the reader. The push and pull of the characters is exasperating in the most delicious way. They push, poke, and prod one another, personally and professionally, and occasionally boiling over. All the while, The Auditor is watching and waiting to make his next move….but is he the only one watching and waiting?
March 2, 2026
Oh Heather Long, you really do know how to reel us in and then slap us with a cliffhanger that literally had my jaw drop. I desperately need someone to talk to about this book, and May can’t come soon enough!!
I am a big fan of crime shows like Criminal Minds, so if you like those and want some added in curiosity of “oh my gosh who is she going to end up with?” This book is for you.
I LOVED Mallory and am so intrigued by all the men in her life. So many questions, few answers, but I can’t wait to see what happens when book 2 in this duet releases!
I am a big fan of crime shows like Criminal Minds, so if you like those and want some added in curiosity of “oh my gosh who is she going to end up with?” This book is for you.
I LOVED Mallory and am so intrigued by all the men in her life. So many questions, few answers, but I can’t wait to see what happens when book 2 in this duet releases!
March 2, 2026
This story excels at building a suffocating sense of obsession, pitting a dangerous mimic against an FBI agent who is slowly losing her professional cool.
The tension between Mallory and the men around her is electric, but the real star is the twisty, "cat-and-mouse" plot that refuses to play fair.
Just be prepared: it is a dark ride with explicit content and a massive cliffhanger that will have you reaching immediately for the next book in the duet.
Rating: 5/5 – Perfect for readers who like their romance with a side of criminal obsession.
The tension between Mallory and the men around her is electric, but the real star is the twisty, "cat-and-mouse" plot that refuses to play fair.
Just be prepared: it is a dark ride with explicit content and a massive cliffhanger that will have you reaching immediately for the next book in the duet.
Rating: 5/5 – Perfect for readers who like their romance with a side of criminal obsession.
March 3, 2026
The thriller is thrilling and that cliffhanger was mean. I have some guesses at who the Auditor could be and I cant wait to see if my suspicions are correct in book 2. I like the direction this story is going and of course I live Brewster and deadline daddy. Mallory is a force to be reckoned with and a wonderful journalist. The themes in this story are clever and have me excited for what comes next. The pacing felt a bit off at times and a bit repetitive or confusing, but overall I really enjoyed the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ever walk into a room and feel like everyone is smarter than you? I'm not even going to pretend that I can comprehend things on the level that Mallory can. Her, Brewster and Flint process at 100mph and I'm still trying to catch up with my rollerblades 😆. I'm invested. I wish I could turn the actual TV on and tune into this story. I kinda have the hots for the Auditor 👀, but I'm also very much team Flint. 🤷♀️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of an advanced reader copy
4.75/5 "Internally, we've been calling this person The Auditor." Heather does it again!!! This dark, crime driven, psychological thriller will have you on the edge of your seat! Mallory is such a strong FMC! I loved that she kept pushing through everything despite what Brewster and Flint wanted! If you love a news reporter who will stick to the story, add in some stronnnggg tension, with some crazy twists, this story is for you!
4.75/5 "Internally, we've been calling this person The Auditor." Heather does it again!!! This dark, crime driven, psychological thriller will have you on the edge of your seat! Mallory is such a strong FMC! I loved that she kept pushing through everything despite what Brewster and Flint wanted! If you love a news reporter who will stick to the story, add in some stronnnggg tension, with some crazy twists, this story is for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Deadly Mimic is the first book in the Fatal Attractions duet by Heather Long. I will say that this book left me with a lot of questions and does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. I am really curious about who Mallory is going to end up with because I am all over the place with her potential love interest(s).
If you like psychological thriller then I would recommend grabbing this book.
If you like psychological thriller then I would recommend grabbing this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The conversations between Mallory and the UNSUB and Mallory and Brewster are masterful and an education. These dynamics between the main players are all highly charged and tension filled. Reading about word usage and how behaviors are reflected in vocabulary was enlightening. This is a slow burn but you are do wrapped up in the story you forget it’s a romance until it explodes. This ends in a cliffhanger as expected by a Heather Long book.
February 27, 2026
This was an interesting step into the thriller genre for this author. While I struggled a bit getting into the rhythm at first, I found myself ensnared in the overall storyline. I really liked the multiple POVs. The Auditor is an intriguing character. I’m anxiously awaiting the conclusion to this duet!
February 28, 2026
This is an intense dark thriller that truly captivates right from the first chapter.
Its a gripping story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Every interaction crackles with with suspicion, danger, and emotional undercurrents.
The pacing is tight, atmospheric, and charged with psychological dread.
Overall, it’s a dark, character‑driven thriller with a seductive vibe.
Its a gripping story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Every interaction crackles with with suspicion, danger, and emotional undercurrents.
The pacing is tight, atmospheric, and charged with psychological dread.
Overall, it’s a dark, character‑driven thriller with a seductive vibe.
February 28, 2026
Wow! I don't even know where to start with this one! it's full of suspense, intrigue, and a little romance dripped in. You really need to concentrate on reading this one. It's unlike anything Heather Long has written before, but it is amazing work. I've no idea how she even comes up with these ideas, the research that goes into it must be phenomenal. I'm eager for book two.
March 3, 2026
The suspense, the set up ! the waiting! I am not a patient person, i usually have a hard time with slow burns, but this , this was setting the scene, it was building, i felt like i was thrown right into a episode of criminal minds, learning my unsub, and the motives, and the story, the cliffhanger at the end...... well that's just building the suspense, a purposeful pause for effect.
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