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DeLuca Family #1
Heartbeats
Fear makes your heart race, but passion can kill...
Dr. Elizabeth Iverson's plans for a sheltered, controlled life are shattered when she discovers her college roommate murdered in her apartment. When her former lover FBI Special Agent Drake McGuire shows up on her doorstep with the cops, he unleashes a storm in her heart that further threatens to destroy her world--especially when Drake insists on hanging around to help solve the case when it becomes apparent that Elizabeth was the intended target.
Book One in the Family DeLuca series, heartbeats introduces the close-knit Chicago Cop family in an intriguing tale that takes us from the teeming streets of Chicago to the rural cornfields of Northern Illinois.
Dr. Elizabeth Iverson's plans for a sheltered, controlled life are shattered when she discovers her college roommate murdered in her apartment. When her former lover FBI Special Agent Drake McGuire shows up on her doorstep with the cops, he unleashes a storm in her heart that further threatens to destroy her world--especially when Drake insists on hanging around to help solve the case when it becomes apparent that Elizabeth was the intended target.
Book One in the Family DeLuca series, heartbeats introduces the close-knit Chicago Cop family in an intriguing tale that takes us from the teeming streets of Chicago to the rural cornfields of Northern Illinois.
- GenresContemporary
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2005
11 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Susan Rae
8 books9 followersI write because I can't resist the challenge of taking the intriguing characters and storylines that pop into my head and fleshing them out into compelling manuscripts. I wrote my first melodrama in fifth grade for a Girl Scout Drama badge, not so different really than a romantic suspense novel. My love of characters lead me to pursue theater in college, and then brought me back around to creative writing. I received my BA in English from Columbia College, Missouri with an emphasis in creative writing.
I love writing romantic suspense because it allows me to combine a sexy, passionate love story with a gritty suspense tale—in my opinion, the best of both worlds. It also lets me express my appreciation for the outdoors in the settings which I recreate on the page.
Freefall, my second novel, takes place in Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine Forest and beautiful Door County. ICE blue returns to the busy streets of Chicago and the shores of Lake Michigan to continue the story of the DeLuca family which began in my award winning first novel, heartbeats. In the third installment of the DeLuca Family, TRUE blue, my characters must take a trip to Montana’s majestic Glacier National Park to solve a twenty-four year old murder.
When I’m not sketching characters or working out plot problems, you might find me on the golf course working on my handicap. I also enjoy traveling around the country seeking out new settings for my novels with my husband and my new puppy, Roxie, who has all the spunk and feistiness of my heroines. To read more about my novels and the writing life, please visit my website/blog at www.susanrae.com
Copyright © 2014 by Susan Rae
I love writing romantic suspense because it allows me to combine a sexy, passionate love story with a gritty suspense tale—in my opinion, the best of both worlds. It also lets me express my appreciation for the outdoors in the settings which I recreate on the page.
Freefall, my second novel, takes place in Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine Forest and beautiful Door County. ICE blue returns to the busy streets of Chicago and the shores of Lake Michigan to continue the story of the DeLuca family which began in my award winning first novel, heartbeats. In the third installment of the DeLuca Family, TRUE blue, my characters must take a trip to Montana’s majestic Glacier National Park to solve a twenty-four year old murder.
When I’m not sketching characters or working out plot problems, you might find me on the golf course working on my handicap. I also enjoy traveling around the country seeking out new settings for my novels with my husband and my new puppy, Roxie, who has all the spunk and feistiness of my heroines. To read more about my novels and the writing life, please visit my website/blog at www.susanrae.com
Copyright © 2014 by Susan Rae
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 21, 2013
This is the second time I read this novel and I must say I enjoyed it more the second time around – increased it a star. However, I personally think it would market better if not classified as a romance. There is more suspense in the story than romance and what mystery doesn’t include a little romance. Rae develops her characters well and keeps the reader engrossed in the story. I was able to solve the case quickly, however there were enough twists and turns others may not. As in most romance novels, you can’t help but fall in love with the hero. As an added bonus, the story line takes place in my local area – Chicago and Richmond, Illinois. Of course, this is because the author lives in the same town as me. In fact, I know her and her family personally.
May 2, 2012
Dr. Elizabeth Iverson and Agent Drake McGuire collide again when Elizabeth's best friend, Julie, was murdered in the apartment they were sharing as Julie was working on her 3rd divorce.Thankfully Elizabeth's daughter, Allison, wasn't home. Soon Elizabeth and Drake realize that Julie was never the target - Elizabeth is the focus of a murderous and psychotic rage. Now it's up to Drake, Elizabeth, and the local cops to figure out who is after her before it's too late and Elizabeth loses everything she loves - including her life.
Thrilling and steamy, heartbeats will grab you from the first word! Blending murder mystery, police procedural, and second-chance romance, Ms. Rae has written a novel which will have you rooting for Elizabeth and Drake and guessing at the evil behind the threats on their lives.
Thrilling and steamy, heartbeats will grab you from the first word! Blending murder mystery, police procedural, and second-chance romance, Ms. Rae has written a novel which will have you rooting for Elizabeth and Drake and guessing at the evil behind the threats on their lives.
April 23, 2012
I had a chance to read this book a few years ago! Great characters kept my attention throughout the whole book! Full of suspense never knew what was going to happen! Didn't want to put book down! I can't wait to read more books from this author! Great Job!!!!!!!!!!!
December 2, 2012
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
Elizabeth’s patients put their lives in her hands, but what happens when her own life is in danger?
Elizabeth is definitely someone who likes to have things under control. I wouldn’t go as far as to call her a control freak, but she comes close. When her life spirals out of control after the death of her friend, she certainly doesn’t want to admit that she needs help. She’s the kind of person who insists on pressing on no matter the circumstances. While I admire her determination, this does give Elizabeth the appearance of being cold at times. However, underneath her carefully controlled exterior, Elizabeth does have a softer side. She is absolutely crazy about her daughter and is as loving and devoted as any parent could be. Elizabeth also has a true passion for her work and she genuinely cares for each one of her patients.
Elizabeth’s softer side is further revealed in her relationship with Drake, a flame from her past. Elizabeth is cautious at first, but when she fully commits her heart to him, they have great potential as a couple. Unfortunately, Elizabeth has a secret that threatens to ruin her budding relationship with Drake. I thought the revelation of this secret played out in a fairly typical way, but it did add an interesting dimension to Elizabeth and Drake’s relationship.
Drake is a typical tough guy with a good heart. He’s a successful FBI agent who doesn’t take no for an answer and is used to doing things his way. Since Drake and Elizabeth both have strong personalities, they butt heads frequently, but given time and little compromise on both sides, I think they will work well together.
Ms. Rae did an excellent job of presenting several plausible suspects who would want to target Elizabeth. I carefully considered the motivation of each one and I was eventually able to narrow down the list based on the continued threats of the killer. As the story progressed, I couldn’t help but read faster, sure that I was on the right track. There were two twists that I didn’t see coming. The first involved Elizabeth and I didn’t think it was necessary as it sort of slowed things down at a moment when I wanted to keep moving full speed ahead. The second twist was more interesting and happened right at the climax when all the pieces of the puzzle were sliding into place and added an extra dash of suspense at just the right moment.
I enjoyed reading heartbeats. The pacing is great and the mystery is plotted very well. Anyone looking for a thrilling romantic suspense should give heartbeats a try.
Elizabeth’s patients put their lives in her hands, but what happens when her own life is in danger?
Elizabeth is definitely someone who likes to have things under control. I wouldn’t go as far as to call her a control freak, but she comes close. When her life spirals out of control after the death of her friend, she certainly doesn’t want to admit that she needs help. She’s the kind of person who insists on pressing on no matter the circumstances. While I admire her determination, this does give Elizabeth the appearance of being cold at times. However, underneath her carefully controlled exterior, Elizabeth does have a softer side. She is absolutely crazy about her daughter and is as loving and devoted as any parent could be. Elizabeth also has a true passion for her work and she genuinely cares for each one of her patients.
Elizabeth’s softer side is further revealed in her relationship with Drake, a flame from her past. Elizabeth is cautious at first, but when she fully commits her heart to him, they have great potential as a couple. Unfortunately, Elizabeth has a secret that threatens to ruin her budding relationship with Drake. I thought the revelation of this secret played out in a fairly typical way, but it did add an interesting dimension to Elizabeth and Drake’s relationship.
Drake is a typical tough guy with a good heart. He’s a successful FBI agent who doesn’t take no for an answer and is used to doing things his way. Since Drake and Elizabeth both have strong personalities, they butt heads frequently, but given time and little compromise on both sides, I think they will work well together.
Ms. Rae did an excellent job of presenting several plausible suspects who would want to target Elizabeth. I carefully considered the motivation of each one and I was eventually able to narrow down the list based on the continued threats of the killer. As the story progressed, I couldn’t help but read faster, sure that I was on the right track. There were two twists that I didn’t see coming. The first involved Elizabeth and I didn’t think it was necessary as it sort of slowed things down at a moment when I wanted to keep moving full speed ahead. The second twist was more interesting and happened right at the climax when all the pieces of the puzzle were sliding into place and added an extra dash of suspense at just the right moment.
I enjoyed reading heartbeats. The pacing is great and the mystery is plotted very well. Anyone looking for a thrilling romantic suspense should give heartbeats a try.
December 6, 2014
heartbeats
DeLuca Family, #1
by Susan Rae
Released: November 1, 2005
** eBook provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. **
-Character Introduction -
As cardiologist Elizabeth Iverson delivers her speech at a University Alumni dinner, a man from her past walks into the room. It's been six years since they'd parted ways, but she'd recognize him anywhere.
FBI Special Agent Drake McGuire spent a spectacular weekend with Elizabeth six years ago and never managed to rid his system of her. Their encounter at the dinner did not go as planned so he goes to her house after. But things quickly become chaotic.
On the eve of their brief, ill-worded reunion, she returns home to the scene of a murder. Drake makes it his business to figure out if the victim was the intended or if Elizabeth was the target.
-----------------
An intriguing murder mystery mixed with a reunion romance. Add to that one bright and adventurous little girl, and you've got an exciting read! While the main characters are well-written and very likable, it's a couple of the supporting characters that the series is named for. Supporting cast is strong. The dialogue and interaction are mostly believable and the plot is dynamic and dramatic, creating a smooth flowing story that compels the reader to keep turning pages. Never mind sleep, just keep reading! It was moderately predictable, but it did not take away from the overall story. The conclusion was solid and neatly tied up. No cliffhangers here. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes action, mystery and intrigue mixed with some hot sexual tension.
-------------------
Score: 4.1
Stars: 4
--------------------
DeLuca Family, #1
by Susan Rae
Released: November 1, 2005
** eBook provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. **
-Character Introduction -
As cardiologist Elizabeth Iverson delivers her speech at a University Alumni dinner, a man from her past walks into the room. It's been six years since they'd parted ways, but she'd recognize him anywhere.
FBI Special Agent Drake McGuire spent a spectacular weekend with Elizabeth six years ago and never managed to rid his system of her. Their encounter at the dinner did not go as planned so he goes to her house after. But things quickly become chaotic.
On the eve of their brief, ill-worded reunion, she returns home to the scene of a murder. Drake makes it his business to figure out if the victim was the intended or if Elizabeth was the target.
-----------------
An intriguing murder mystery mixed with a reunion romance. Add to that one bright and adventurous little girl, and you've got an exciting read! While the main characters are well-written and very likable, it's a couple of the supporting characters that the series is named for. Supporting cast is strong. The dialogue and interaction are mostly believable and the plot is dynamic and dramatic, creating a smooth flowing story that compels the reader to keep turning pages. Never mind sleep, just keep reading! It was moderately predictable, but it did not take away from the overall story. The conclusion was solid and neatly tied up. No cliffhangers here. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes action, mystery and intrigue mixed with some hot sexual tension.
-------------------
Score: 4.1
Stars: 4
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December 9, 2014
I was gifted this book for an honest review. Great story with characters you will fall in love with. A story of love, deceit, greed, fear, and regret. This page turner will have your heart racing and breaking!
Elizabeth is a single mom. She thought she had found love but was mistaken. Her job as a surgeon provides for her and her daughter. Guest speaking at a medical event was the last place she ever expected to run into him.....
Drake was taking a much needed break from his duties as an FBI agent. He decided to take a trip home to visit family and attend an alumni event. He was shocked to catch the last part of her presentation and determined to speak to her. She, however left before he got the chance. Undeterred, he found her, and it was a good thing he did.....
Missy - reviewer for Mommy's Naughty Playground
Elizabeth is a single mom. She thought she had found love but was mistaken. Her job as a surgeon provides for her and her daughter. Guest speaking at a medical event was the last place she ever expected to run into him.....
Drake was taking a much needed break from his duties as an FBI agent. He decided to take a trip home to visit family and attend an alumni event. He was shocked to catch the last part of her presentation and determined to speak to her. She, however left before he got the chance. Undeterred, he found her, and it was a good thing he did.....
Missy - reviewer for Mommy's Naughty Playground
November 4, 2016
This story is about Drake and Elizabeth who had a passionate weekend 5 years ago. She ran because she was afraid he had a dangerous job as an FBI agent. Five years later they are thrown together again. Someone is after Elizabeth and Drake is on the case to make sure she is safe. But Elizabeth has a secret, a daughter which she never told Drake about. The love and passion they had is still there but will he forgive her for not telling her? The mystery was a good one with lots of suspects thrown in. I wasn't sure who the killer was until the end which was good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2014
Great review on Amazon. Average of 14 reviews: 4.3 stars!
May 16, 2012
Great reviews on Amazon. Average 4.3 stars!
November 3, 2012
Sexy and dangerous. Good quick read.
January 24, 2016
Set in Chicago. Good writing, seemed too drawn out but liked the H/h.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews