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The Mortician’s Daughter #3
Three Heartbeats Away
The dead carry their secrets with them…
At least until they end up at Riley Smith’s door. Her latest spectral visitor is a murdered bride with a need for revenge, and not necessarily for the person who killed her. Never mind that killer is about to strike again. Riley’s determined to help, but is missing Hayden, the hot, ghostly boy who’s always had her back.
Living, breathing Hayden is awake, which means his spirit isn’t around to flirt with Riley anymore. Worse yet, the “real” Hayden doesn’t remember her. Their connection had been so strong. Did his feelings for Riley just disappear into the ether?
As Riley gets closer to finding the bride’s killer, other secrets are revealed: secrets that changes everything Riley thought she knew about her parents. But before she can completely unravel the mystery of her past, Riley will need to escape the murderer that threatens her future.
At least until they end up at Riley Smith’s door. Her latest spectral visitor is a murdered bride with a need for revenge, and not necessarily for the person who killed her. Never mind that killer is about to strike again. Riley’s determined to help, but is missing Hayden, the hot, ghostly boy who’s always had her back.
Living, breathing Hayden is awake, which means his spirit isn’t around to flirt with Riley anymore. Worse yet, the “real” Hayden doesn’t remember her. Their connection had been so strong. Did his feelings for Riley just disappear into the ether?
As Riley gets closer to finding the bride’s killer, other secrets are revealed: secrets that changes everything Riley thought she knew about her parents. But before she can completely unravel the mystery of her past, Riley will need to escape the murderer that threatens her future.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2019
87 people are currently reading
964 people want to read
About the author
C.C. Hunter
37 books8,130 followersC. C. Hunter is the New York Times bestselling author of over thirty-five books, including her wildly popular Shadow Falls and Shadow Falls: After Dark series. In addition to winning numerous awards and rave reviews for her novels, C.C. is also a photojournalist, motivational speaker, and writing coach. In February 2018, Wednesday Books will publish her contemporary young adult and hardcover debut, This Heart of Mine. And the first book of her new paranormal young adult series, The Mortician's Daughter: One Foot in the Grave was released on October 31st 2017. C. C. currently resides in Texas with her husband, junkyard dog, Lady, and whatever wild creatures that meander out from woods surrounding home.
C.C. Hunter is a pseudonym. Her real name is Christie Craig and she also writes humorous romantic suspense romance novels. www.christie-craig.com
C.C. would love to hear from you. Because of deadlines, it may take her a day or so to get back with you, but she will reply. cc@cchunterbooks.com
C.C. Hunter is a pseudonym. Her real name is Christie Craig and she also writes humorous romantic suspense romance novels. www.christie-craig.com
C.C. would love to hear from you. Because of deadlines, it may take her a day or so to get back with you, but she will reply. cc@cchunterbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
June 15, 2019
Warning: this review will contain some spoilers from the previous books!
4 very satisfying conclusion stars
What a ride this trilogy has been!
I loved following Riley through these three books, witnessing how she adjusted to her new town, new school, new friends and …. seeing ghosts!
This trilogy is more than paranormal as CC Hunter focuses on the struggle of being a teen, having a dysfunctional family and realizing your parents are not these perfect creatures you thought they’d be when you were a little kid.
Of course you have boys problems too, mysteries to solve, murderers to send to jail or sick kids to save.
As you can guess this is all but boring!
In this last instalment we begin right where we left: Hayden waking up from his coma and … not recognizing Riley! And he had a girlfriend!
I confess that this plot twist had me raging at the end of the second book!
What will happen of their relationship now?
Will Hayden fall in love with Riley again?
Of course he was confused! He did not know if what he seemed to know about Riley made sense because she had maybe talked to him or his mom while he was in coma or if it’s something else!
He is lost and as many teenage boys really clumsy with relationships. I can confess that he put his foot in his mouth more than once and I just wanted to roll my eyes and shake some sense in him!
If that was not enough, an important topic of the story is Riley’s father being an alcoholic.
That’s when I bow low to CC Hunter. I don’t know if she’s experienced something similar with a loved one or just did her research but I know intimately what it does mean to have a dad who’s drinking too much. And a dad who’s a good person, someone who loves you and cares for you not some abuser drunk!
Everything was spot on! All the details about hiding the bottles, falling asleep in your underwear in the living room, the denial, etc. All was exact!
As if Riley’s plate was not full enough she has to solve the mystery of a murdered bride and find her killer before he makes another victim. Oh and she has to unearth all the secrets surrounding her mom!
All these plot lines interlock smoothly, flawlessly and I was embarked on Riley’s journey for two days full of intrigue, heartache, frustration and friendship.
Should you read it?
Of course! Only after the first two books as it’s been an excellent PNR series.
Have you read CC Hunter's books? Are you a fan?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
4 very satisfying conclusion stars
What a ride this trilogy has been!
I loved following Riley through these three books, witnessing how she adjusted to her new town, new school, new friends and …. seeing ghosts!
This trilogy is more than paranormal as CC Hunter focuses on the struggle of being a teen, having a dysfunctional family and realizing your parents are not these perfect creatures you thought they’d be when you were a little kid.
Of course you have boys problems too, mysteries to solve, murderers to send to jail or sick kids to save.
As you can guess this is all but boring!
In this last instalment we begin right where we left: Hayden waking up from his coma and … not recognizing Riley! And he had a girlfriend!
I confess that this plot twist had me raging at the end of the second book!
What will happen of their relationship now?
Will Hayden fall in love with Riley again?
Of course he was confused! He did not know if what he seemed to know about Riley made sense because she had maybe talked to him or his mom while he was in coma or if it’s something else!
He is lost and as many teenage boys really clumsy with relationships. I can confess that he put his foot in his mouth more than once and I just wanted to roll my eyes and shake some sense in him!
If that was not enough, an important topic of the story is Riley’s father being an alcoholic.
That’s when I bow low to CC Hunter. I don’t know if she’s experienced something similar with a loved one or just did her research but I know intimately what it does mean to have a dad who’s drinking too much. And a dad who’s a good person, someone who loves you and cares for you not some abuser drunk!
Everything was spot on! All the details about hiding the bottles, falling asleep in your underwear in the living room, the denial, etc. All was exact!
As if Riley’s plate was not full enough she has to solve the mystery of a murdered bride and find her killer before he makes another victim. Oh and she has to unearth all the secrets surrounding her mom!
All these plot lines interlock smoothly, flawlessly and I was embarked on Riley’s journey for two days full of intrigue, heartache, frustration and friendship.
Should you read it?
Of course! Only after the first two books as it’s been an excellent PNR series.
Have you read CC Hunter's books? Are you a fan?
Thanks for reading!
Sophie
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook group : Beware Book Boyfriends Alert
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
April 3, 2022
Three Heartbeats Away is the conclusion to The Mortician's Daughter series by C.C. Hunter. In this book everything between Hayden and Riley has is going to finally come together or fall apart. Secrets are revealed and emotions are on edge.
Just like with books 1 and 2 in this series, I flew through Three Heartbeats Away in one afternoon. C.C. Hunter's writing has a way of wrapping me up in her character's lives and making the real world melt away. I can sit and read her books for hours and it will only have felt like a few minutes have passed.
The ending of this series is bittersweet for me. I'm sad it's over, but I really enjoyed the adventurous ride.
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Just like with books 1 and 2 in this series, I flew through Three Heartbeats Away in one afternoon. C.C. Hunter's writing has a way of wrapping me up in her character's lives and making the real world melt away. I can sit and read her books for hours and it will only have felt like a few minutes have passed.
The ending of this series is bittersweet for me. I'm sad it's over, but I really enjoyed the adventurous ride.
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2019
Rating: 4.25/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
July 18, 2019
I finished reading the whole The Mortician’s Daughter series within the week and it’s been a thrilling ride to the other side.. with the spirits, I mean. Riley Smith had a lot on her plate, with the variety of ghosts tailing her and seeking help, (Oh my gosh, that bloody bride with a knife on her chest got me really spooked!!). There’s also her father turning to alcohol, Hayden causing a stir in her heart and Jacob confusing her vibe, and let’s not forget her bestfriend Kelsey’s life in possible danger and lastly, the truth about her dead mom.
There’s just too much to take and I couldn’t blame Riley for taking matters in her own hands. I’m not gonna say what happened, but the last book’s revelations is a must read!
This series got me hooked from the very first page up to the very last. All the characters are engaging, the plot gave me thrills and excitement and a thousand terrified heartbeats. I’ve read some of CC Hunter’s stand alone novels before and all of them are lovely!! Now, this is my new favorite series from her!! Four thumbs up! (Including my toes, lol!)
There’s just too much to take and I couldn’t blame Riley for taking matters in her own hands. I’m not gonna say what happened, but the last book’s revelations is a must read!
This series got me hooked from the very first page up to the very last. All the characters are engaging, the plot gave me thrills and excitement and a thousand terrified heartbeats. I’ve read some of CC Hunter’s stand alone novels before and all of them are lovely!! Now, this is my new favorite series from her!! Four thumbs up! (Including my toes, lol!)
September 11, 2023
Wow! J'ai adoré!
February 18, 2021
Great end to the series.
Part of me didn't want the series to be over, but I felt good with how things ended. The mystery was exciting in this one as well, though I still think the mystery in the first book was the best.
SPOILERS >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I had huge anxiety at the end of the last one with Hayden forgetting her, but that dissipated pretty quickly in this one. I enjoyed watching him remember and them fall in love again. It was also nice to see that no one else got hurt because they loved each other.
One thing I really loved in this series was Riley's relationship with her dad. Seeing how much she loved him, but struggled with what he was doing really made me love her. In the end when she gives him the ultimatum, but then realizes that she really can't because no matter what she will be there for him. Then in the end when he finally decides he does need help! I loved her realizations about him and the way she goes about forgiving him. Especially in relation to her mother. It shows that this is only the beginning and things won't be easy, but that they are at least willing to try.
Overall, really loved this series!
Part of me didn't want the series to be over, but I felt good with how things ended. The mystery was exciting in this one as well, though I still think the mystery in the first book was the best.
SPOILERS >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I had huge anxiety at the end of the last one with Hayden forgetting her, but that dissipated pretty quickly in this one. I enjoyed watching him remember and them fall in love again. It was also nice to see that no one else got hurt because they loved each other.
One thing I really loved in this series was Riley's relationship with her dad. Seeing how much she loved him, but struggled with what he was doing really made me love her. In the end when she gives him the ultimatum, but then realizes that she really can't because no matter what she will be there for him. Then in the end when he finally decides he does need help! I loved her realizations about him and the way she goes about forgiving him. Especially in relation to her mother. It shows that this is only the beginning and things won't be easy, but that they are at least willing to try.
Overall, really loved this series!
June 18, 2019
In the first two books you follow Riley and Hayden's journey (I won't say what journey so I don't spoil anything). This book, Riley finds out her father has been keeping a HUGE secret from her with the help of an angry dead ghost bride. At first, this new ghost freaks her out. She throws knives and Riley starts to think she's dangerous BUT then she realizes the ghost is desperate for help because her murderer is about to strike AGAIN and she doesn't want another poor woman in her situation.
The romance between Hayden and Riley slows to a stop when he wakes up and doesn't remember anything about her. But he slowly starts to remember and thinks he's going crazy because how could he have these memories when he didn't even know her?
The more they get to know each other, he starts to help Riley with her ghost issue along with her best friend. On top of the murder, she has to deal with her alcoholic father, and her "family secret" (I'm not saying what it is so it isn't spoiled!).
This book had a great mix between romance, paranormal ghosts, friendships, and family drama. Rarely do you see a girl dedicated to a best friend the way Riley is. Most of the time I read these books, the romance takes up all the protagonists time and she puts her friends on the back burner but not in Three heartbeats Away!
The romance between Hayden and Riley slows to a stop when he wakes up and doesn't remember anything about her. But he slowly starts to remember and thinks he's going crazy because how could he have these memories when he didn't even know her?
The more they get to know each other, he starts to help Riley with her ghost issue along with her best friend. On top of the murder, she has to deal with her alcoholic father, and her "family secret" (I'm not saying what it is so it isn't spoiled!).
This book had a great mix between romance, paranormal ghosts, friendships, and family drama. Rarely do you see a girl dedicated to a best friend the way Riley is. Most of the time I read these books, the romance takes up all the protagonists time and she puts her friends on the back burner but not in Three heartbeats Away!
June 29, 2019
I couldn’t wait to see how C.C. Hunter finished this series with Riley and it was absolutely perfect. I loved reading how strong Riley was and yet vulnerable in dealing with many things all at once and especially letting the love come through. Romance and mystery at its best!
June 18, 2019
I have nothing but love and admiration for this series and I will read anything C.C. Hunter writes!
My heart is aching, my eyes are swollen from crying, and I’m still overwhelmed with so many different emotions that I feel breathless, but amazingly exhilarated. The Mortician’s Daughter series by C.C. Hunter has a special place in my heart and I’m so sad it’s over, but also really super happy about how everything played out. Three Heartbeats Away is definitely the perfect conclusion to this hauntingly beautiful, enthralling and suspenseful paranormal romance thriller and I really LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series!
This stunning and fun trilogy had me enamored from the moment I met Riley and I absolutely enjoyed being part of her journey. From the high and the lows, the happy and the sad, the good and the bad, the twists and turns, and everything else in between… I honestly LOVED it all. This series is just so amazing and addictive. It’s satisfyingly infectious, incredibly enticing, and wonderfully poignant. I don’t think my obsession with this will ever be cured because I still really want MORE. It may have shattered and broke my heart, but it also made me feel so many beautiful emotions. It was torture for sure… an absolutely delicious torture. So, if you’ve read One Foot in the Grave and Two Feet Under, then you CANNOT miss Three Heartbeats Away cause Hunter did not hold anything back and she gave me everything I want and love in a story.
There are plenty of moments that ripped my heart and made me cry. I hurt so damn bad for the characters and everything they’re dealing with, but my heart ached the most for Riley. She's struggling with so many issues in her life that I was really amazed she’s able to keep it together the way she did. If I could I would give her the biggest hug…. definitely more than 20 seconds. Actually, I would hug all the characters cause I felt so much for them. Sometimes, I still feel weird saying I care about fictional people, but I really care about these characters and wanted to see them happy.
There are also many funny and adorable scenes that lightened my mood, made me smile, and even laugh. Riley and Kelsey’s friendship is definitely goals and I loved their bond. The chemistry between Riley and Hayden is palpable, realistic, and swoony. As much as I didn’t like some of it, I really did enjoy how Riley and Hayden’s relationship developed and I thought it was really sweet. The murder mystery part and Riley trying to help the bride ghost, Shane, was so really exciting and I enjoyed trying to solve the case. There's also family drama and conflict which were interesting to read about and had so much feels. Sorry, not sorry for using "feels" a lot because this book is just full of them.
I truly had a fantastic time reading this book, but, if I’m being honest, I felt like I was literally holding on to my heart the entire time. I really wish I could say more, but I don’t want to ruin all the surprises, twists, revelations, swoons and thrills. Just be prepared for heartache and the FEELS… oh and have a tissue box ready. You’re going to need it.
Three Heartbeats Away is exceptionally well-written, wonderfully affecting and absolutely riveting. I loved the plot, the world-building, the characters, the mystery, the drama, the humor, the suspense and the adorable romance. While this book is undeniably thrilling and fun, I really love that it’s also a story about family, friendship, bravery, perseverance, forgiveness, acceptance, hope and love. The Mortician’s Daughter series completely had me hooked and emotionally wrecked... but in the best way. I’m totally having the worst book hangover right now cause I just want more.
If you’re in the mood for an irresistibly intriguing paranormal romance story with gorgeous writing, lovable characters, amazing thrills, and so much heart, then you need to pick up this series ASAP. All the books are out now so what are you waiting for?
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My heart is aching, my eyes are swollen from crying, and I’m still overwhelmed with so many different emotions that I feel breathless, but amazingly exhilarated. The Mortician’s Daughter series by C.C. Hunter has a special place in my heart and I’m so sad it’s over, but also really super happy about how everything played out. Three Heartbeats Away is definitely the perfect conclusion to this hauntingly beautiful, enthralling and suspenseful paranormal romance thriller and I really LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series!
This stunning and fun trilogy had me enamored from the moment I met Riley and I absolutely enjoyed being part of her journey. From the high and the lows, the happy and the sad, the good and the bad, the twists and turns, and everything else in between… I honestly LOVED it all. This series is just so amazing and addictive. It’s satisfyingly infectious, incredibly enticing, and wonderfully poignant. I don’t think my obsession with this will ever be cured because I still really want MORE. It may have shattered and broke my heart, but it also made me feel so many beautiful emotions. It was torture for sure… an absolutely delicious torture. So, if you’ve read One Foot in the Grave and Two Feet Under, then you CANNOT miss Three Heartbeats Away cause Hunter did not hold anything back and she gave me everything I want and love in a story.
There are plenty of moments that ripped my heart and made me cry. I hurt so damn bad for the characters and everything they’re dealing with, but my heart ached the most for Riley. She's struggling with so many issues in her life that I was really amazed she’s able to keep it together the way she did. If I could I would give her the biggest hug…. definitely more than 20 seconds. Actually, I would hug all the characters cause I felt so much for them. Sometimes, I still feel weird saying I care about fictional people, but I really care about these characters and wanted to see them happy.
There are also many funny and adorable scenes that lightened my mood, made me smile, and even laugh. Riley and Kelsey’s friendship is definitely goals and I loved their bond. The chemistry between Riley and Hayden is palpable, realistic, and swoony. As much as I didn’t like some of it, I really did enjoy how Riley and Hayden’s relationship developed and I thought it was really sweet. The murder mystery part and Riley trying to help the bride ghost, Shane, was so really exciting and I enjoyed trying to solve the case. There's also family drama and conflict which were interesting to read about and had so much feels. Sorry, not sorry for using "feels" a lot because this book is just full of them.
I truly had a fantastic time reading this book, but, if I’m being honest, I felt like I was literally holding on to my heart the entire time. I really wish I could say more, but I don’t want to ruin all the surprises, twists, revelations, swoons and thrills. Just be prepared for heartache and the FEELS… oh and have a tissue box ready. You’re going to need it.
Three Heartbeats Away is exceptionally well-written, wonderfully affecting and absolutely riveting. I loved the plot, the world-building, the characters, the mystery, the drama, the humor, the suspense and the adorable romance. While this book is undeniably thrilling and fun, I really love that it’s also a story about family, friendship, bravery, perseverance, forgiveness, acceptance, hope and love. The Mortician’s Daughter series completely had me hooked and emotionally wrecked... but in the best way. I’m totally having the worst book hangover right now cause I just want more.
If you’re in the mood for an irresistibly intriguing paranormal romance story with gorgeous writing, lovable characters, amazing thrills, and so much heart, then you need to pick up this series ASAP. All the books are out now so what are you waiting for?
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 6, 2020
At the end of Book #2, Two Feet Under we read as Hayden/Carter to his friends had just woken up from his coma. In the room are Brandy, Jacob, and Riley. The thing is though as he wakes up - he kisses Brandy as we learn that they had been going out for about two months before the accident and he has no recollection of who Riley is. She is heartbroken and heads home and cries with her ice-cream punnets. During this first instance, she is visited by a murdered ghost - a woman in a wedding dress with a knife sticking out of her stomach. The bride tells Riley that her mother is responsible for her murder, how can that be though as her mother supposedly died when Riley was four and this bride's ghost is fresh. Three Heartbeats Away focuses on a few different storylines including Riley discovering the truth about her mother and the fact that her father lied to her all her life, we then have Kelsey's issue when her mother ends up in hospital after her new boyfriend Carl bet her up and this leads into a potential tragedy when Carl faces Kelsey, Riley, and Dex with a loaded gun, we then have Riley and Hayden trying to figure things out as Hayden is having memories of Riley but how can that be especially since he has been in a coma. The last storyline is the Bride as Riley pairs up with Hayden like old times to try and discover who killed Shane and stop from someone else being killed. I have enjoyed this series and if you are a fan of shows like The Ghost Whisperer starring Jennifer Love Hewitt you will love CC Hunter's series "The Mortician's Daughter".
June 23, 2019
A wonderful story with a very satisfying ending to the story of Riley Smith and her friends.
As in the first two books, Riley is visited by a ghost. This time it's a woman who died a horrible death by stabbing. While Riley is trying her best to help the ghost, she is also dealing with her dad's drinking, with her boyfriend's awakening from a coma but not remembering Riley and with her best friend, Kelsey and her struggles with her own life. On top of all that Riley learns something about her mother that turns her world upside down.
Very readable dialog with a heartfelt story.
As in the first two books, Riley is visited by a ghost. This time it's a woman who died a horrible death by stabbing. While Riley is trying her best to help the ghost, she is also dealing with her dad's drinking, with her boyfriend's awakening from a coma but not remembering Riley and with her best friend, Kelsey and her struggles with her own life. On top of all that Riley learns something about her mother that turns her world upside down.
Very readable dialog with a heartfelt story.
August 3, 2019
A good third book bringing the series a well deserved ending with most of the threads nicely woven in a satisfying manner, avoiding showing it all from any pink lenses. The books deals with several important topics around relations, addictions etc. Half of the read I imagined the protagonist as a younger version of the recent TV character from In between.
June 19, 2019
I really enjoyed the ending of this series.
June 21, 2019
Sad to see end
Perfect ending to the series. Lots of things happen for Riley, her dad, and Hayden. And lots of twists and turns kept me guessing!
Perfect ending to the series. Lots of things happen for Riley, her dad, and Hayden. And lots of twists and turns kept me guessing!
October 15, 2019
I have read almost every book C.C. Hunters books and fallen in love with the characters. I was mad at the second book so much I literally Dived in to the Third one. I really loved this.
September 28, 2020
Perfect conclusion for this 3 part series. I'm sad it is over!
October 23, 2020
WoW ! une des meilleures trilogies que j’ai lu
March 13, 2021
I finished this book a good while ago, and so I do not remember too much other than it being a bit repetative. I rate "Three Heartbeats Away" 3 stars.
February 23, 2021
A light fun series!
December 13, 2019
Absolutely loved this conclusion to this trilogy. Between the romantic angst, the mystery, and the struggles with parents, there was so much going on but it was all so invigorating and captivating. A dashing story indeed.
May 8, 2020
The ending made me so happy.
January 19, 2019
When is this book being released?
March 12, 2020
The ghosts are back again! And Riley's newest visitor is a murdered bride. An angry murdered bride who wants revenge - and not necessarily for the person who killed her. With the help of the ghost, Riley and friends find out that the murderer is about to strike again and Riley will do anything to stop that from happening.
Hayden - Riley's ghostly friend who she fell in love with - is awake. One problem with that.... he doesn't remember her. He doesn't remember the love they shared while he was a ghost, while he was in his coma. Riley is heartbroken. Will he ever remember anything they once shared?
Secrets start to unravel while Riley comes closer to finding the bride's killer. Secrets about her parents are revealed. Secrets that could change everything.
I think I loved this series almost as much as I loved C.C. Hunter's Shadow Falls series. She really knows how to build her characters into people you can really relate with and feel for. You get attached to them just as you would any one of your real life friends. They become one with you and when something happens to them... you get hit hard. This book was so emotional with going through the whole Hayden not remembering her or his love for her. How she has to deal with it. Then there's the whole dealing with her dad's drinking problem. It gets worse and worse, to the point she can no longer take it.
This book's murder mystery took a lot of work and was unexpected. My guess was wrong in the end. Dammit. It was all so well played out. All the secrets that were unfolded in the end, just made it so much better. I loved how it ended and I loved how everything came together just right. It really was a great series.
5 Star read for sure! Go pick up the series now if you haven't already read it!
Hayden - Riley's ghostly friend who she fell in love with - is awake. One problem with that.... he doesn't remember her. He doesn't remember the love they shared while he was a ghost, while he was in his coma. Riley is heartbroken. Will he ever remember anything they once shared?
Secrets start to unravel while Riley comes closer to finding the bride's killer. Secrets about her parents are revealed. Secrets that could change everything.
I think I loved this series almost as much as I loved C.C. Hunter's Shadow Falls series. She really knows how to build her characters into people you can really relate with and feel for. You get attached to them just as you would any one of your real life friends. They become one with you and when something happens to them... you get hit hard. This book was so emotional with going through the whole Hayden not remembering her or his love for her. How she has to deal with it. Then there's the whole dealing with her dad's drinking problem. It gets worse and worse, to the point she can no longer take it.
This book's murder mystery took a lot of work and was unexpected. My guess was wrong in the end. Dammit. It was all so well played out. All the secrets that were unfolded in the end, just made it so much better. I loved how it ended and I loved how everything came together just right. It really was a great series.
5 Star read for sure! Go pick up the series now if you haven't already read it!
October 31, 2024
I'm giving the Mortician's Daughter series a big, hearty five stars!
In this final instalment, we find ourselves spending more time in the hospital than at school. The stakes have never been higher as Riley grapples with her father's ongoing struggle with alcoholism and a long-hidden secret that has finally come to light.
On the romance front, Riley's heart breaks as the boy she likes doesn’t remember their past and the bond they once shared. To complicate matters, he also has a girlfriend! Meanwhile, the ghost of a murdered bride, complete with a knife in her chest, continues to haunt Riley.
C.C. Hunter's storytelling always strikes a chord with me. The plot unfolds in ways I hope for, filled with drama among friends and family, a sweet romance, and most importantly, the story intertwined with paranormal elements—just the perfect mix for my taste!
The characters feel incredibly realistic, and the world-building immerses you so completely that you feel like you’re living the main character's journey and experiencing every moment of the story.
I like the development of both friendship and love within the story. C.C. Hunter has crafted a strong bond between Riley and Kelsey, who face numerous challenges together. Their connection is something I wish I could have in my friendships.
The conclusion of this series leaves me with bittersweet feelings. I'm saddened that it has come to an end and disappointed that C.C. Hunter no longer writes paranormal books. I have fond memories of her Shadow Falls series, which I read a few years ago. I might just pick it up again, as I love her writing so much!
In this final instalment, we find ourselves spending more time in the hospital than at school. The stakes have never been higher as Riley grapples with her father's ongoing struggle with alcoholism and a long-hidden secret that has finally come to light.
On the romance front, Riley's heart breaks as the boy she likes doesn’t remember their past and the bond they once shared. To complicate matters, he also has a girlfriend! Meanwhile, the ghost of a murdered bride, complete with a knife in her chest, continues to haunt Riley.
C.C. Hunter's storytelling always strikes a chord with me. The plot unfolds in ways I hope for, filled with drama among friends and family, a sweet romance, and most importantly, the story intertwined with paranormal elements—just the perfect mix for my taste!
The characters feel incredibly realistic, and the world-building immerses you so completely that you feel like you’re living the main character's journey and experiencing every moment of the story.
I like the development of both friendship and love within the story. C.C. Hunter has crafted a strong bond between Riley and Kelsey, who face numerous challenges together. Their connection is something I wish I could have in my friendships.
The conclusion of this series leaves me with bittersweet feelings. I'm saddened that it has come to an end and disappointed that C.C. Hunter no longer writes paranormal books. I have fond memories of her Shadow Falls series, which I read a few years ago. I might just pick it up again, as I love her writing so much!
March 21, 2020
I’m giving this book 3 1/2 stars. To be honest I wasn’t thoroughly impressed by it.
I felt the ending was wrapped up too quickly and the alcoholism with the father was strange. I understand alcoholism is different for every person, but I felt like the alcoholism didn’t even needed to be in the book.
This book was meant for YA and I feel like the alcoholic father wasn’t real enough for me. I guess that’s coming from experience, but I felt like there were a lot of blank moments and not enough hints and buildups for it. Now I’m not saying the father has to be this mean drunk, but I would have liked more of a buildup.
Yes there was buildup; however, it seemed so sporadic and strange that I couldn’t find it realistic.
Also the love circle with all of the couples seemed so stale. It was too perfect... I guess I’m a cynic, but this was too happy for me. Yay the dad does to AA and has a gf, Riley and Hayden are together, Jacob and Brandy are together, Kelsey and Dex are together. It was too much like As You Like It by William Shakespeare that a damn god had to come down to marry all of the couples. It was too forced and too innocent.
On a good note, I did love the mystery behind everything. CC Hunter does a fabulous job of making turns and twists to make me think who the real killer is. I swore up and down it was the coach, but here we are and I stand corrected.
I would recommend the series to others but not this book individually. Maybe my rating is harsh, but that’s show biz kids.
Cheers.
I felt the ending was wrapped up too quickly and the alcoholism with the father was strange. I understand alcoholism is different for every person, but I felt like the alcoholism didn’t even needed to be in the book.
This book was meant for YA and I feel like the alcoholic father wasn’t real enough for me. I guess that’s coming from experience, but I felt like there were a lot of blank moments and not enough hints and buildups for it. Now I’m not saying the father has to be this mean drunk, but I would have liked more of a buildup.
Yes there was buildup; however, it seemed so sporadic and strange that I couldn’t find it realistic.
Also the love circle with all of the couples seemed so stale. It was too perfect... I guess I’m a cynic, but this was too happy for me. Yay the dad does to AA and has a gf, Riley and Hayden are together, Jacob and Brandy are together, Kelsey and Dex are together. It was too much like As You Like It by William Shakespeare that a damn god had to come down to marry all of the couples. It was too forced and too innocent.
On a good note, I did love the mystery behind everything. CC Hunter does a fabulous job of making turns and twists to make me think who the real killer is. I swore up and down it was the coach, but here we are and I stand corrected.
I would recommend the series to others but not this book individually. Maybe my rating is harsh, but that’s show biz kids.
Cheers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2019
This third and final book in C.C. Hunter’s amazing series brings a murdered bride with a need for revenge to Riley Smith, who is discovering things about her parents—especially the mother who died when she was young—that not only don’t add up, but are somehow connected to the spectral visitor in a wedding gown with a butcher knife protruding from her chest.
Then there’s the problem with Hayden, the ghostly boy who’s been there for her through some truly frightening experiences, except Hayden wasn’t dead—he was in a coma when his spirit first connected with Riley. Unfortunately, when Riley convinces him to embrace life and he awakens, he doesn’t seem to recall any of the times they’ve spent together. He only remembers his girlfriend from before his accident.
Riley’s father is still drinking too much, her best friend Kelsey is dealing with her own parent problems, and the person who murdered the bride is about to strike again. I generally like to read a book more than once, and I’ve had a hard time putting this one down. The author captures teenagers perfectly—her characters are smart and brave and trying to deal with school, mean girls, imperfect parents and the angst of falling in love. Throw in a ghost or two and a murderer on the loose, and you have another absolutely perfect YA Romance from C.C. Hunter. I definitely recommend this series. The books are all wonderful, and the final one is definitely a winner.
Then there’s the problem with Hayden, the ghostly boy who’s been there for her through some truly frightening experiences, except Hayden wasn’t dead—he was in a coma when his spirit first connected with Riley. Unfortunately, when Riley convinces him to embrace life and he awakens, he doesn’t seem to recall any of the times they’ve spent together. He only remembers his girlfriend from before his accident.
Riley’s father is still drinking too much, her best friend Kelsey is dealing with her own parent problems, and the person who murdered the bride is about to strike again. I generally like to read a book more than once, and I’ve had a hard time putting this one down. The author captures teenagers perfectly—her characters are smart and brave and trying to deal with school, mean girls, imperfect parents and the angst of falling in love. Throw in a ghost or two and a murderer on the loose, and you have another absolutely perfect YA Romance from C.C. Hunter. I definitely recommend this series. The books are all wonderful, and the final one is definitely a winner.
August 9, 2019
This starts off right after book 2, Two Feet Under. This one I found to be a little creepier than the other two. The ghost is more gruesome in appearance and definitely angrier. We learned in the last book that the angrier the ghost is the more they can control in the living world – and that just makes these encounters more intense. I found some of the creepy factor wained about halfway through the book, as we start to understand the ghost more and we learn more about the mystery. There were a couple of red herrings for the murderer in this book, one I was sure was actually the murderer because of how much he seemed to fit. Then out of left field, we learn in the last 10% of the book who it was. It wasn’t a surprising twist exactly and I wasn’t happy with who the murderer was, but at the same time it does make sense.
Overall, this was a nice conclusion to the series. Everything was relatively wrapped up or we felt like it was heading towards a conclusion. There are still a couple of things that are left open, but those are life long issues that can’t be summed up in an epilogue exactly. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who wants a fun, fast read. This is definitely for those who enjoyed the Ghost Whisperer series and wanted a YA take on it.
You can find my full reivew here.
Overall, this was a nice conclusion to the series. Everything was relatively wrapped up or we felt like it was heading towards a conclusion. There are still a couple of things that are left open, but those are life long issues that can’t be summed up in an epilogue exactly. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone who wants a fun, fast read. This is definitely for those who enjoyed the Ghost Whisperer series and wanted a YA take on it.
You can find my full reivew here.
July 16, 2019
It’s here! It’s here! It’s here!
Alright, now that I’ve gotten the kid excitement out of me with that previous line, here’s my review for the third book in the Mortician’s Daughter series: Three Heartbeats Away by CC Hunter - it’s well worth the wait!
Riley’s troubles doesn’t just start with having a Dad that tends to fib the truth up a bit on where he’s located at times, or the fact that she’s like any teenage girl with boy issues- well maybe not so typical with said boy previously being part ghost, part comatose patient that’s now completely awake and has amnesia when it comes to his history with her; occasional best friend issues but also has a dead bride ghost following her around that looks like she’s also a ‘just been murdered’ type of ghost....isn’t that just lovely?
Riley stumbles into hidden secrets that involve her parents (including her dead mother) and the murdered bride ghost.
Are you hooked yet? You should be if you’ve already read the previous two books but if you haven’t yet, what are you waiting on? This is a thrilling page turner type of read!
Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and/or your local bookstore retailer.
Seriously?!? Why are you still reading this? Start reading!
#themorticiansdaughter @christiecraigauthor #cchunterbooks #cchunter #christiecraigakacchunter #threeheartbeatsaway @barnesandnoble #streetteammember
Alright, now that I’ve gotten the kid excitement out of me with that previous line, here’s my review for the third book in the Mortician’s Daughter series: Three Heartbeats Away by CC Hunter - it’s well worth the wait!
Riley’s troubles doesn’t just start with having a Dad that tends to fib the truth up a bit on where he’s located at times, or the fact that she’s like any teenage girl with boy issues- well maybe not so typical with said boy previously being part ghost, part comatose patient that’s now completely awake and has amnesia when it comes to his history with her; occasional best friend issues but also has a dead bride ghost following her around that looks like she’s also a ‘just been murdered’ type of ghost....isn’t that just lovely?
Riley stumbles into hidden secrets that involve her parents (including her dead mother) and the murdered bride ghost.
Are you hooked yet? You should be if you’ve already read the previous two books but if you haven’t yet, what are you waiting on? This is a thrilling page turner type of read!
Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and/or your local bookstore retailer.
Seriously?!? Why are you still reading this? Start reading!
#themorticiansdaughter @christiecraigauthor #cchunterbooks #cchunter #christiecraigakacchunter #threeheartbeatsaway @barnesandnoble #streetteammember
July 29, 2019
This is one of the hardest reviews I have had to write because I can not write everything I want without doing spoilers and I would hate to spoil this book for anyone that has not read it yet. I think from the three in the series this was the biggest tear jerker for me it still had enough humor in it to make it funny but Riley faces so many emotional problems in this book. From dealing with the dead bride ghost and who the murderer could be, dealing with Hayden and him not remembering her, her fathers alcohol issues and then there are the issues with her mother and her past. I can't say anymore on that without giving something major away I was seriously shocked by chapter 7. I also love the twists and turns in this book because I really thought I had figured out who the murderer was and I thought now that was too easy but then it took a twist and it wasn't who I suspected. The only thing that I didn't like is that I felt after Hayden being in a coma for so long he recuperated too fast I would of liked to see where he struggled with recuperating cause it would of made it more believable. But other than that this was a great book and great ending to the series loved this book and if you have not read the mortician's daughter series, read it now!
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