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Valentine Mystery #1
Deadly Valentine
He tastes like chocolate and sin, but is he a murderer?
"Written with precision and care, this intriguing romance/murder mystery is a fun read that will keep readers guessing until the very end." - Publisher's Weekly
Tess Madison walked away from her two-timing fiancé, a multi-million dollar trust fund and a cushy corporate law job to pursue the single life indulging in chocolate and fancy French underwear. But her newly reordered life comes unraveled when she reluctantly accepts an invitation to a dinner party and stumbles upon the host’s dead body.
Now Tess is in the middle of a murder investigation pitting her wannabe-boyfriend police detective against Jack Valentine, a man from her past with blue-green eyes and sinful smile that causes her to rethink her self-imposed celibacy.
Tess has many reasons to avoid Jack including the fact that he’s the prime suspect in murder. But Tess doesn’t believe Jack’s the murderer and with an honest attempt to keep her hormones in check, she agrees to represent him. With Jack’s help, she uncovers a 30-year-old secret someone is killing to keep hidden and discovers sensual delights that don’t include chocolate or French underwear.
But when her professional and personal relationship with Jack threatens to ruin her career and end her life, Tess has to decide if Jack is worth the risk.
Deadly Valentine is the first in the Valentine Mysteries, a mystery series with a couple as the main sleuths. If you like romance and mystery and want to follow a passionate couple as they stumble over dead bodies and later tumble into bed, the Valentine Mysteries are for you. See where the murder and passion begins in the Valentine Mystery series.
"Written with precision and care, this intriguing romance/murder mystery is a fun read that will keep readers guessing until the very end." - Publisher's Weekly
Tess Madison walked away from her two-timing fiancé, a multi-million dollar trust fund and a cushy corporate law job to pursue the single life indulging in chocolate and fancy French underwear. But her newly reordered life comes unraveled when she reluctantly accepts an invitation to a dinner party and stumbles upon the host’s dead body.
Now Tess is in the middle of a murder investigation pitting her wannabe-boyfriend police detective against Jack Valentine, a man from her past with blue-green eyes and sinful smile that causes her to rethink her self-imposed celibacy.
Tess has many reasons to avoid Jack including the fact that he’s the prime suspect in murder. But Tess doesn’t believe Jack’s the murderer and with an honest attempt to keep her hormones in check, she agrees to represent him. With Jack’s help, she uncovers a 30-year-old secret someone is killing to keep hidden and discovers sensual delights that don’t include chocolate or French underwear.
But when her professional and personal relationship with Jack threatens to ruin her career and end her life, Tess has to decide if Jack is worth the risk.
Deadly Valentine is the first in the Valentine Mysteries, a mystery series with a couple as the main sleuths. If you like romance and mystery and want to follow a passionate couple as they stumble over dead bodies and later tumble into bed, the Valentine Mysteries are for you. See where the murder and passion begins in the Valentine Mystery series.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2012
92 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Harte
25 books197 followersI've always had a romantic streak. Even as a kid, my favorite characters on TV were almost always happily married and as a twelve year old, I'd write stories about them (this was before fan fiction or the Internet were invented).
I love to read romantic suspense or mystery, but am disappointed that romances don't follow up on the happily ever after and mysteries rarely provide the sexy, romantic elements I enjoy. So I decided to write my own with the Valentine Mysteries.
When I'm not telling stories, I work by day as romance ghostwriter and run an online community for romance writers at WriteWithHarte.com. I'm an empty nester in central Virginia living my HEA with my hubby and a nutty cat.
I love to read romantic suspense or mystery, but am disappointed that romances don't follow up on the happily ever after and mysteries rarely provide the sexy, romantic elements I enjoy. So I decided to write my own with the Valentine Mysteries.
When I'm not telling stories, I work by day as romance ghostwriter and run an online community for romance writers at WriteWithHarte.com. I'm an empty nester in central Virginia living my HEA with my hubby and a nutty cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 18, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. I don't read a lot of murder mystery and I don't know why because this one had me hooked from the very beginning.
The murder mystery itself was entertaining, like a game of clue, except we know the where. I kept going back and forth between many of the characters. The author did a very good job of making just about everyone have a motive and look suspicious.
The mystery surrounding Jack had me very intrigued and kept me on the edge of my seat about what Asa's announcement could have been.
The love story between Jack and Tess was nice albeit a little frustrating with Tess's attitude, but the rest of the story held up enough that it all worked out.
Definitely a good read!
The murder mystery itself was entertaining, like a game of clue, except we know the where. I kept going back and forth between many of the characters. The author did a very good job of making just about everyone have a motive and look suspicious.
The mystery surrounding Jack had me very intrigued and kept me on the edge of my seat about what Asa's announcement could have been.
The love story between Jack and Tess was nice albeit a little frustrating with Tess's attitude, but the rest of the story held up enough that it all worked out.
Definitely a good read!
September 22, 2013
Sometimes you just need a book to completely ENTERTAIN you! Deadly Valentine by Jenna Harte did that for me with its murder, mystery, suspense and romantic tension! Jenna Harte put her own stamp on this book with her clean writing style that raises and lowers the tension smoothly and with a great sense of timing and awareness, alternating some humorous moments with chilling moments, heated moments, and moments of pain and awkwardness, and oh yes, romantic moments! I like that as much as I like those nasty little twists and monkey wrenches that get thrown in. A rather nasty, but powerful man is murdered during a family dinner at which time he was to deliver some big news. The question is who did it and why. But is the answer simple? Nope, no way, there is a rollercoaster of little side stories, twists and entanglements to get through before we find out “who-dun-it.” Was it the wealthy businessman? The son? The ex-wife? The butler?
As if the mystery isn’t enough, the romantic tension is full blown, “She is destroyed from her past, He was part of the devastation and another He wants her badly enough that he is a huge pain!” Ahh, male testosterone, female insecurities, and shades of, “Oh my gawd, just give in, will you?”
Jenna Harte can write a good mystery, ramp up the sexual tension and keep her characters human. Ever wonder what’s going on in an alpha-type mind when he longs to “claim his woman?” Maybe I could figure the romance out before the last page, but getting there was well worth all the pages that came before!
I need to thank the author for providing a review copy in exchange for my honest review!
Series: A Valentine Mystery, Book 1
Publication Date: August 5, 2012
Publisher: Moxie Vie
ISBN-10: 0988177021 (Paperback)
ISBN-13: 978-0988177024
Number of Pages: 308
Genre: Adult Fiction/Mystery/Romance-Contemporary
Connect with Jenna:
Twitter
Facebook
Available From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
As if the mystery isn’t enough, the romantic tension is full blown, “She is destroyed from her past, He was part of the devastation and another He wants her badly enough that he is a huge pain!” Ahh, male testosterone, female insecurities, and shades of, “Oh my gawd, just give in, will you?”
Jenna Harte can write a good mystery, ramp up the sexual tension and keep her characters human. Ever wonder what’s going on in an alpha-type mind when he longs to “claim his woman?” Maybe I could figure the romance out before the last page, but getting there was well worth all the pages that came before!
I need to thank the author for providing a review copy in exchange for my honest review!
Series: A Valentine Mystery, Book 1
Publication Date: August 5, 2012
Publisher: Moxie Vie
ISBN-10: 0988177021 (Paperback)
ISBN-13: 978-0988177024
Number of Pages: 308
Genre: Adult Fiction/Mystery/Romance-Contemporary
Connect with Jenna:
Available From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
March 10, 2015
As a fan of contemporary romances and cozy mysteries, I was delighted to read a book that combined two of my favorite genres. (Note: for those who read cozy mysteries where there might be a romantic entanglement or a couple, please note this is also a romance that is not closed door-there are sex scenes). Heat level (on my personal scale which is 1-kissing, sweet; 2-closed door, 3-sex scenes, 4-steamy and frequent, 5-erotic or erotica): 3.
Tess Madison is a lawyer who is close friends with Daniel Showalter. He'd love to take things to the next level, but she is hesitant to do so. His family has been like a second family to her, and she's never felt attracted to him. She does agree to accompany him to his Uncle Asa's house for dinner. Asa Worthington is a powerful man, and as the evening progresses has never bothered to make a friend. He's gathered a number of his family members as well as one guest Tess never wanted to see again: Jack Valentine. Tess is taken ill and goes to rest. She wakes up disoriented and opens the wrong door only to find Asa dead.
Who murdered Asa? And why did Tess never want to see Jack again? These are two questions that are answered by the end of the book.
It was a good first of the series, and I'm looking forward to the next one.
Tess Madison is a lawyer who is close friends with Daniel Showalter. He'd love to take things to the next level, but she is hesitant to do so. His family has been like a second family to her, and she's never felt attracted to him. She does agree to accompany him to his Uncle Asa's house for dinner. Asa Worthington is a powerful man, and as the evening progresses has never bothered to make a friend. He's gathered a number of his family members as well as one guest Tess never wanted to see again: Jack Valentine. Tess is taken ill and goes to rest. She wakes up disoriented and opens the wrong door only to find Asa dead.
Who murdered Asa? And why did Tess never want to see Jack again? These are two questions that are answered by the end of the book.
It was a good first of the series, and I'm looking forward to the next one.
November 10, 2012
This was an interesting read for me. I like the author's writing style but wasn't thrilled with her characters. I felt Tess (the main female character) to be boring and for the life of me couldn't figure out what attracted Jack (the main male character) to her. The mystery wasn't that hard to figure out - and I perfer twists I don't see coming. Parts in the middle were enjoyable, such as Jack finding out about his mother but it isn't enough to have me pick up another Valentine Mystery book. Finally, I found the ending to be lacking. What happened to Jack's grandmother, did she and Tess ever make peace? What happened to Tess's dog and why wasn't she anxious to see him again? What about Tess's friend and Daniel? I'm assuming they would be addressed in the next book but I would have expected some sort of hint. I wasn't sad to get to the end of this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2013
It’s the case of, “Whodunnit?”
Tess Madison thought she left her old life behind. She was content to devote herself to her law practice and a man wasn't necessary, until the dinner party at the Worthington mansion and the return of Jack Valentine. Tess was humiliated by Jack three years ago and she wants to crawl under a rock when she sees him again. Jack shouldn't be at the dinner party. Her old life wasn't supposed to meet her new life, but it does and the dinner party full of dysfunctional family members ends badly. Now Jack is the prime suspect in a murder. What do you do when a super-hot man who gets to you in a way no other can is being investigated for murder? You represent him of course!! This puts her at odds with the people in her new life, but Jack is innocent; at least she's pretty sure he's innocent and her hormones aren't messing with her judgment.
When I first started DEADLY VALENTINE I swore that I was transported back in time. Back when I played the board game "Clue." I mean the whole dinner party at the old mansion with the old rich guy and the butler, etc. The plot is right off the game and into a story. It does evolve into more, but it takes some time.
I would categorize DEADLY VALENTINE as a murder mystery with a romantic subplot. Most of the story revolves around the investigation into the murder that occurs at the Worthington mansion and subsequent events. I love mysteries, but DEADY VALENTINE had twists that I felt were too predictable and the storytelling was drawn out at times; mainly the first half. I did enjoy the long list of interesting secondary characters (My favorite is Cora.). So many people could have been the murderer and we learn about many of them, which make for a complex story.
Jack and Tess reveal very real and understandable emotions concerning their relationship and I genuinely felt their turmoil, but I just wish there was more heat. Like I said, this is really more of a murder mystery than a romance novel. While their relationship is an important part of DEADLY VALENTINE and there are a couple detailed bedroom scenes, I didn't get the whole hot and bothered feeling that I've come to enjoy from steamy novels. It’s more like a warm and fuzzy love story.
If you're looking for a light and entertaining mystery with a love story, then DEADLY VALENTINE is one to get. Enjoy trying to solve the case.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
Tess Madison thought she left her old life behind. She was content to devote herself to her law practice and a man wasn't necessary, until the dinner party at the Worthington mansion and the return of Jack Valentine. Tess was humiliated by Jack three years ago and she wants to crawl under a rock when she sees him again. Jack shouldn't be at the dinner party. Her old life wasn't supposed to meet her new life, but it does and the dinner party full of dysfunctional family members ends badly. Now Jack is the prime suspect in a murder. What do you do when a super-hot man who gets to you in a way no other can is being investigated for murder? You represent him of course!! This puts her at odds with the people in her new life, but Jack is innocent; at least she's pretty sure he's innocent and her hormones aren't messing with her judgment.
When I first started DEADLY VALENTINE I swore that I was transported back in time. Back when I played the board game "Clue." I mean the whole dinner party at the old mansion with the old rich guy and the butler, etc. The plot is right off the game and into a story. It does evolve into more, but it takes some time.
I would categorize DEADLY VALENTINE as a murder mystery with a romantic subplot. Most of the story revolves around the investigation into the murder that occurs at the Worthington mansion and subsequent events. I love mysteries, but DEADY VALENTINE had twists that I felt were too predictable and the storytelling was drawn out at times; mainly the first half. I did enjoy the long list of interesting secondary characters (My favorite is Cora.). So many people could have been the murderer and we learn about many of them, which make for a complex story.
Jack and Tess reveal very real and understandable emotions concerning their relationship and I genuinely felt their turmoil, but I just wish there was more heat. Like I said, this is really more of a murder mystery than a romance novel. While their relationship is an important part of DEADLY VALENTINE and there are a couple detailed bedroom scenes, I didn't get the whole hot and bothered feeling that I've come to enjoy from steamy novels. It’s more like a warm and fuzzy love story.
If you're looking for a light and entertaining mystery with a love story, then DEADLY VALENTINE is one to get. Enjoy trying to solve the case.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
July 31, 2017
I met this author at a book signing this spring. I have to admit after chatting with her a few minutes and looking over her books the valentine series caught my eye with interesting titles and covers I was hooked and wanted to know more. I bought the series and decided this weekend I would read the first one. I did not know what to expect since I had not read any of her work. At first I found the book a little confusing thinking that Jack was her ex fiancé which is not the case and is gone into later on in the book. What the author brings to the table is a delightful intriguing murder mystery with a little romance. I had a hard time working out who the killer was and had to chuckle when I find out. What you will find between these pages is conflict, trust issues, old pain, new pain, sadness, sorrow, and a death, mystery of who did it and who is still trying to kill people. The plot is built around a powerful family, one deceitful member, a friend along with an ex and some old friends that pull you into their mixed up life of hate, love and deceit.
The author has no trouble holding your interest and keeping you entertained with some drama, a little excitement and a thrill or two. There is danger all around with everyone pointing fingers but they all seem to be pointing at poor Jack who has no idea why he was invited to the party. Even I have to admit with the things he did it didn’t look good for him. At first Jack comes across as the over powering man but it doesn’t take long to find he is really a sweet heart that just isn’t sure of his self when it comes to one women. Tess doesn’t want much out of life just a good one with only men friends, she has had enough of the happy ever after to last her a life time. She is sweet but no dummy after living through the mess she did she knows what she wants and is making a good life for herself. In walks Jack to mess with her mind which puts men against men with a delightful love triangle. The story is mostly built around the murder mystery and why with just the right touch of romance.
I really liked the conflict, confusion and the many people who had a reason to kill Asa. It does seem the man knows how to make enemies even with his own family. There are two mysteries in this book one of who did the killing and one of a lady and her child. I found this story intriguing until the very end, I really had trouble putting it down and stayed up late at night. I thought it was well written, very interesting, the characters are lively, there is some humor which makes you smile along. This is just a cozy delightful read. I do plan on reading it again.
The author has no trouble holding your interest and keeping you entertained with some drama, a little excitement and a thrill or two. There is danger all around with everyone pointing fingers but they all seem to be pointing at poor Jack who has no idea why he was invited to the party. Even I have to admit with the things he did it didn’t look good for him. At first Jack comes across as the over powering man but it doesn’t take long to find he is really a sweet heart that just isn’t sure of his self when it comes to one women. Tess doesn’t want much out of life just a good one with only men friends, she has had enough of the happy ever after to last her a life time. She is sweet but no dummy after living through the mess she did she knows what she wants and is making a good life for herself. In walks Jack to mess with her mind which puts men against men with a delightful love triangle. The story is mostly built around the murder mystery and why with just the right touch of romance.
I really liked the conflict, confusion and the many people who had a reason to kill Asa. It does seem the man knows how to make enemies even with his own family. There are two mysteries in this book one of who did the killing and one of a lady and her child. I found this story intriguing until the very end, I really had trouble putting it down and stayed up late at night. I thought it was well written, very interesting, the characters are lively, there is some humor which makes you smile along. This is just a cozy delightful read. I do plan on reading it again.
February 8, 2015
2½ stars. Some of the plot was predictabe, even obvious, but the solution did surprise me. I could have done with less details about the sex between Tess and Jack but it was clearly indicated in the blurb so it wasn't a surprise.
February 6, 2021
Initial thoughts: This was so freaking good. I’m amazed how much I loved this story. It was a mix between a cozy mystery and a romance, which have been books I have been devouring. Both the mystery and the romance balanced off of each other really well with neither of them lacking in substance. They both kept me in suspense and kept me on my toes. It was so hard to put down because I was invested in both storylines. I just wanted to know what was going to happen next. I needed to know if Jack and Tess would make it as a couple and hoped it didn’t get dragged into the next book until they were together again. I don’t know if I could handle that. This made me want to read the rest of the books in the series because I just loved it that much. I’m that all in with the characters of Jack and Tess. The entire thing just blew me away.
I don’t know if I am going to write a detailed review or not because I could gush gush and gush about it, and I could see it being a million words long. I don’t even know if I could do justice with a review even then. Just know I was very happy and impressed with this one in case I don’t decide to write a longer review.
I don’t know if I am going to write a detailed review or not because I could gush gush and gush about it, and I could see it being a million words long. I don’t even know if I could do justice with a review even then. Just know I was very happy and impressed with this one in case I don’t decide to write a longer review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2022
A new Author for me but what a fantastic start to a new series. Wil definitely be reading the following books. If you like a mystery/murder and a sexy hero and a gorgeous heroine, this series is for you. Highly recommend.
January 8, 2026
This was a good mystery with some nice twists. The love triangle between Daniel, Jack and Tess added to the tension. the complicated interpersonal relationships made for a constantly changing suspect. I did enjoy it wasn't memorable enough to read more.
October 2, 2021
Enjoyed the mystery and interactions between the characters. It was interesting how hard it was to break down Tess's walls.
October 19, 2024
*4.75 stars*
October 10, 2013
TITLE - DEADLY VALENTINE
AUTHOR - JENNA HARTE
STARS - 5
REVIEWER - WENDE SHEETS
Tess Morgan was a lawyer from Washington. She moved to Jefferson Town, Virginia 3 years ago. She cut off the DC world, and stayed in her won protective bubble. Tess was trying to recover from heartbreak and betrayal. She had no trinkets or memento's from her DC life. What she wanted was to forget and never remember. At least that is the goal till Jack Valentine, an old friend shows up at a dinner party.
On a cold February night family an a few friends gathered at the home of Asa Worthington. What family thought was just a family gathering Jack Valentine, a lawyer from Washington was told it was business. When Asa shows up dead a few hours into the party, everyone is wondering WHO and WHY. Asa was not a well liked man, but with a house full of family who would hate him that bad to kill him?
Tess is soon hired by Jack, to his lawyer, when he soons become suspect number one. Once Tess and Jack start researching and interviewing family interesting things are turning up. Many skeletons are released from the closet.
No one really knows the reason behind Asa's dinner party that night, but what Tess discovers could explain the reason for his death.
Tess has had her guard up for 3 years, with Jack will she be able to let it down? Will she be able to protect her heart ? Representing Jack could destroy all she built up in the last 3 years. Time will only tell or maybe love will tell.
I fell in love the with characters from this novel. It was a book that was easy to follow and left you guessing clear up to the end. I am looking forward to book 2! There was just the right amount of romance and mystery!
complimentary book for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
AUTHOR - JENNA HARTE
STARS - 5
REVIEWER - WENDE SHEETS
Tess Morgan was a lawyer from Washington. She moved to Jefferson Town, Virginia 3 years ago. She cut off the DC world, and stayed in her won protective bubble. Tess was trying to recover from heartbreak and betrayal. She had no trinkets or memento's from her DC life. What she wanted was to forget and never remember. At least that is the goal till Jack Valentine, an old friend shows up at a dinner party.
On a cold February night family an a few friends gathered at the home of Asa Worthington. What family thought was just a family gathering Jack Valentine, a lawyer from Washington was told it was business. When Asa shows up dead a few hours into the party, everyone is wondering WHO and WHY. Asa was not a well liked man, but with a house full of family who would hate him that bad to kill him?
Tess is soon hired by Jack, to his lawyer, when he soons become suspect number one. Once Tess and Jack start researching and interviewing family interesting things are turning up. Many skeletons are released from the closet.
No one really knows the reason behind Asa's dinner party that night, but what Tess discovers could explain the reason for his death.
Tess has had her guard up for 3 years, with Jack will she be able to let it down? Will she be able to protect her heart ? Representing Jack could destroy all she built up in the last 3 years. Time will only tell or maybe love will tell.
I fell in love the with characters from this novel. It was a book that was easy to follow and left you guessing clear up to the end. I am looking forward to book 2! There was just the right amount of romance and mystery!
complimentary book for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
February 22, 2013
I <3 Valentine's Day and I am a sap for any Valentine related book, hence why I got this one. I thought it would be a nice break from my current tour of alpha billionaire led romance. I love a thriller and paired with a Valentine theme, I was hoping for some hot action (in and out of the bedroom), however the action was lukewarm at best. I didn't feel any chemistry between Tess and Jack. I felt like I never got to know Tess. Tess is supposedly an uptight lawyer who left her privileged ,moneyed world behind, but we don't know why. Jack is still intrigued, again why because she's about as warm as an icebox. They supposedly were once good friends but this is but a blip in the story.
The 'mystery" behind Jack's past is not really mysterious since it's pretty much spelled out for us half way though. The writing tense and tone also changed about half way as well. Tess is the protagonist until it abruptly changed from her to Jack. I love when authors give us different perspectives of the same event especially when we can get inside a guy's head, but in this case it just felt awkward.
I am thankful that the author gave us a complete, stand alone novel (no cliffhangers here), but it was just okay for me.
The 'mystery" behind Jack's past is not really mysterious since it's pretty much spelled out for us half way though. The writing tense and tone also changed about half way as well. Tess is the protagonist until it abruptly changed from her to Jack. I love when authors give us different perspectives of the same event especially when we can get inside a guy's head, but in this case it just felt awkward.
I am thankful that the author gave us a complete, stand alone novel (no cliffhangers here), but it was just okay for me.
April 13, 2014
I love mysteries, and this one certainly did not disappoint. Jack is invited to a party by the secretive Asa who says he has a business proposition but won't give any details. At the party, Jack sees Tess again for the first time in 3 years. Tess is upset at seeing Jack again, but the reader doesn't learn the details about their history until later in the story. When Asa is killed, Jack is the prime suspect and Tess eventually agrees to be his lawyer.
I was hooked from the very first page and couldn't wait to learn more about the characters. The mystery reminded me very much of the game Clue, and while I had guessed the murdered, I didn't think it was painfully obvious. I loved seeing Tess and Jack's relationship, and I'm glad that their past wasn't revealed right away.
The author has a note at the end saying how she dislikes that the happy couple usually isn't revisited after the mystery ends. I completely agree and am so glad that we can continue to follow Jack and Tess in the rest of the series!
I was hooked from the very first page and couldn't wait to learn more about the characters. The mystery reminded me very much of the game Clue, and while I had guessed the murdered, I didn't think it was painfully obvious. I loved seeing Tess and Jack's relationship, and I'm glad that their past wasn't revealed right away.
The author has a note at the end saying how she dislikes that the happy couple usually isn't revisited after the mystery ends. I completely agree and am so glad that we can continue to follow Jack and Tess in the rest of the series!
February 12, 2014
A who dunnit that takes you to the very end. Is it the ex-wife, the butler, the greedy daughter-in-law, the stranger - who killed the ruthless Asa Worthington?
Tess Madison is invited to a family dinner by her friend, police detective, Daniel, nephew of Asa Worthington. When he is called away Tess is left to fend with the family when the one man from her past she wanted to avoid shows up, Jack Valentine.
After swearing off men, Tess now has two men vying for her attention. Daniel, the lifelong friend who wants more. And Jack, the one that was there when her heart broke 3 years ago but he shattered it with his rejection of Tess.
Now she has to try to balance representing Jack in a murder investigation and her attraction to him. And trying not to get killed while doing it.
A great murder-mystery that has a few moments of dual POV, I only wish we had more insight to Jack.
Tess Madison is invited to a family dinner by her friend, police detective, Daniel, nephew of Asa Worthington. When he is called away Tess is left to fend with the family when the one man from her past she wanted to avoid shows up, Jack Valentine.
After swearing off men, Tess now has two men vying for her attention. Daniel, the lifelong friend who wants more. And Jack, the one that was there when her heart broke 3 years ago but he shattered it with his rejection of Tess.
Now she has to try to balance representing Jack in a murder investigation and her attraction to him. And trying not to get killed while doing it.
A great murder-mystery that has a few moments of dual POV, I only wish we had more insight to Jack.
January 9, 2016
I must confess that I didn't know what a cozy was before I picked up this title. Now I realize that I've read many cozies and really do like the genre. This book fits perfectly and I'm looking forward to reading the remainder of the series.
There's a story to Tess. She leaves her affluent parents and fiance behind to move to a small town and set up a fledgling law practice. We have hints as to why and certainly the reason for leaving the boyfriend behind eventually becomes clear, but there's still some mystery to who Tess is.
There's even more mystery to who Jack is although he doesn't even realize it. He's heartbroken by the news and reacts as anyone in his situation would - although that puts Tess out a bit.
Although this is the first book in a series, it's definitely a standalone. Thank goodness. I'm not a huge fan of cliffhangers and am happy to continue traveling along on Jack and Tess's adventures. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes cozies, romance, or mysteries.
There's a story to Tess. She leaves her affluent parents and fiance behind to move to a small town and set up a fledgling law practice. We have hints as to why and certainly the reason for leaving the boyfriend behind eventually becomes clear, but there's still some mystery to who Tess is.
There's even more mystery to who Jack is although he doesn't even realize it. He's heartbroken by the news and reacts as anyone in his situation would - although that puts Tess out a bit.
Although this is the first book in a series, it's definitely a standalone. Thank goodness. I'm not a huge fan of cliffhangers and am happy to continue traveling along on Jack and Tess's adventures. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes cozies, romance, or mysteries.
November 16, 2012
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This book was beautifully written. I could hardly put it down! Loved Harte's style of writing!
I loved the mystery in this book. Some books have that problem where the plot and the mystery surrounding it are just too out of left field to be believable, but not this one. I loved every minute of reading this. It was great to keep guessing in my head what was going to happen in the end.
The development of Tess's character throughout the book was also great. I loved how everything seemed real and down to earth. Made for a much more enjoyable read!
I loved this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good mystery romance! I can not wait to read more by Jenna Harte!
This book was beautifully written. I could hardly put it down! Loved Harte's style of writing!
I loved the mystery in this book. Some books have that problem where the plot and the mystery surrounding it are just too out of left field to be believable, but not this one. I loved every minute of reading this. It was great to keep guessing in my head what was going to happen in the end.
The development of Tess's character throughout the book was also great. I loved how everything seemed real and down to earth. Made for a much more enjoyable read!
I loved this book and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good mystery romance! I can not wait to read more by Jenna Harte!
March 7, 2013
I really enjoyed this book as you can see by my rating. This is the first book that I have read by Jenna Harte and it had me hooked from the very beginning.
For the first time in a while I didn't guess who the killer was until later in the book. I kept going back and forth between many of the characters. The author did a very good job of making just about everyone look guilty until you don't what to think.
I love the romance between Jack and Tess, mainly because Jack is a man who is not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeves.
For the first time in a while I didn't guess who the killer was until later in the book. I kept going back and forth between many of the characters. The author did a very good job of making just about everyone look guilty until you don't what to think.
I love the romance between Jack and Tess, mainly because Jack is a man who is not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeves.
February 16, 2014
I have mixed feelings about this book. I was distracted because I felt thrown into the middle of the story. Immediately the heroine needs help, but from someone she must have had a past with. So few clues were given it was hard to follow. I could not understand what was going with either Jack or with Daniel. Things got better in the second half when things were more clear. However, an editor is definitely needed to clean up all the "you're"s that should been "your"s, the reverse, and other errors.
March 14, 2015
Cute story, easy read
Enjoyed the mystery, and, even though I'm not a fan of romantic fiction, enjoyed the interplay between the characters. Good for a rainy day read because it's a quick enough read to be read in one sitting. I would consider other mysteries by this author, which is a good endorsement from me, as I like to try new authors. When I'm willing to come back for seconds, the author has done something to impress me.
Enjoyed the mystery, and, even though I'm not a fan of romantic fiction, enjoyed the interplay between the characters. Good for a rainy day read because it's a quick enough read to be read in one sitting. I would consider other mysteries by this author, which is a good endorsement from me, as I like to try new authors. When I'm willing to come back for seconds, the author has done something to impress me.
March 12, 2024
Very complex mystery that I enjoyed. Lots of twists and turns, clues and red herrings. The pacing action was well written. I wish there was a bit more setting description, but maybe in future books? If you like some detailed romantic scenes in your mysteries, you will love this, but I’m not a romance gal. I had been warned about the sizzle, but I read it anyway. Those who like romance will definitely deem it 5 star worthy.
November 15, 2012
Jenna pens "Deadly Valentine" a real page turner filled with mystery and romance. Her characters are well developed and believable in a plot that is interesting and intriguing. I totally enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to all mystery romance fans.
This review is based on a complimentary copy which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy which was provided for an honest review.
January 9, 2013
Oh, come on....everyone loves a good mystery romp! And this one IS! Oh, and speaking of romps...there are some pretty warm scenes that do, also!
I love the characters, most of all Tess and her feistiness (and her love of lingerie! Everyone loves chocolate, but $200 panties?!? YEAH!). KEEP 'EM COMING, Jenna Harte! Polished this one off in three sittings, letting all else in the house go!
I love the characters, most of all Tess and her feistiness (and her love of lingerie! Everyone loves chocolate, but $200 panties?!? YEAH!). KEEP 'EM COMING, Jenna Harte! Polished this one off in three sittings, letting all else in the house go!
February 2, 2016
Jack Valentine is suspected of murder. Tess and old friend is at the party when the murder took place and she takes on Jack as a client. She has to fight her feelings for her client as well as the Worthington's an influential family as well as relation to the deceased. Fast paced as well as funny in spots.
December 19, 2016
This story is a good start to what I think will be a great series. This was the 1st book that I have read of Jenna Hartes. It kept my attention the whole time with mystery on top of mystery and was humorous also. I can't wait to read on in this series and will make sure I have nothing else to do at the time. Since this was a book I didn't want to put down, I'm guessing the rest will follow.
February 27, 2020
The starting of this book was a bit boring. It sounded cliche.. The girl trying to escape from someone from her past but comes across him and she is thinking "Oh this can't be happening" while the guy is over the moon. Anyways, soon the book develops a twist and from then on the story progresses well.. It's a story of second chances and a good mystery. So I recommend it..
February 19, 2013
This one started out fast, then bogged down a little, then sped back up. I did have a couple of moments where I really just wanted to kick Jack in the butt! Looks as if this is part of a .... wait for it.... SERIES!!! You know how addicted I am to series!
July 22, 2015
ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS.
This is a beautifully written and easy to read book that captures your interest and keeps you hooked up to and including the fantastic ending. Put this on your must read list.
This is a beautifully written and easy to read book that captures your interest and keeps you hooked up to and including the fantastic ending. Put this on your must read list.
March 13, 2017
Good Read!
A woman who has turned off her heart meets an old love. There is a murder. The police think her friend did it. She is his attorney, trying to find evidence. Murder, mystery, danger..
A woman who has turned off her heart meets an old love. There is a murder. The police think her friend did it. She is his attorney, trying to find evidence. Murder, mystery, danger..
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