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Unmasking the Shadow Man
In this romantic suspense from a USA Today–bestselling author, a woman investigating her sister’s death in her rural hometown finds an ally in a local cop.
Officer Liam Andrews knows when a woman’s in danger. From the moment he encounters Harper Catlett, he’s wants her under his protection. Something mysterious is going on in the house where Harper’s sister died years ago and now that Harper is conducting some amateur detective work, she’s suddenly facing threats from an unseen enemy. What Harper doesn’t know is that Liam is already working undercover on her hometown’s unsolved murders. And the more Harper probes the small southern town’s sordid secrets, the greater the risk to both of them. Will they be able to solve these long-buried crimes before they wind up dead?
Officer Liam Andrews knows when a woman’s in danger. From the moment he encounters Harper Catlett, he’s wants her under his protection. Something mysterious is going on in the house where Harper’s sister died years ago and now that Harper is conducting some amateur detective work, she’s suddenly facing threats from an unseen enemy. What Harper doesn’t know is that Liam is already working undercover on her hometown’s unsolved murders. And the more Harper probes the small southern town’s sordid secrets, the greater the risk to both of them. Will they be able to solve these long-buried crimes before they wind up dead?
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2019
17 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Herbert
76 books683 followersDebbie Herbert, a USA Today and Publisher's Weekly bestselling writer, pens Psychological Suspense, romantic suspense and paranormal romance novels. She’s always been fascinated by magic, romance and Gothic stories.
Married and living in Alabama, she roots for the Crimson Tide football team. When not working on her upcoming books, Debbie enjoys recumbent bicycling and jet skiing with her husband.
2017 RITA® Finalist for Paranormal Romance in the national contest sponsored by the Romance Writers of America® Debbie has a degree in English (Berry College, GA) and a master’s in Library Studies (University of Alabama).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 24, 2019
Wow, danger, romance and suspense all in one fast-moving book! After many years, Harper Catlett returns to the painful memories of her home town and the house in which her sister died when she was a teenager. It was called an accident, but Harper has always suspected something more sinister. She returns because her mother has died and the old house’s affairs must be put in order, but things start to happen that frighten her. Enter Liam Andrews, a local police officer investigating a string of murders of homeless men. Harper comes to him, frightened by eerie sounds in the house and a threatening email warning her to get out. Liam is one of the few people who is willing to help her discover if her suspicions are real or only in her mind, and he joins her in her sleuthing. They are both immensely likeable, and make a wonderful team.
This novel has everything you’d want – mystery, danger, not knowing who to trust, and wonderful characters to root for. It is so well written that you feel caught up in its world, and keep turning the pages trying to solve the mystery. Well done, Debbie Herbert, I loved UNMASKING THE SHADOW MAN, and couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended, five stars!!
This novel has everything you’d want – mystery, danger, not knowing who to trust, and wonderful characters to root for. It is so well written that you feel caught up in its world, and keep turning the pages trying to solve the mystery. Well done, Debbie Herbert, I loved UNMASKING THE SHADOW MAN, and couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended, five stars!!
August 2, 2019
I received an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You ever read a book and wish you could forget it just to experience it again? That is Unmasking the Shadow Man. I finished this book in under 24 hours. I could not put it down. Debbie Herbert keeps you enthralled from the first page. It is definitely a book I will read again and again.
You ever read a book and wish you could forget it just to experience it again? That is Unmasking the Shadow Man. I finished this book in under 24 hours. I could not put it down. Debbie Herbert keeps you enthralled from the first page. It is definitely a book I will read again and again.
August 11, 2019
Questions about a past event still plague Harper Catlett after many years, and related memories are especially haunting when she goes back to her hometown where her sibling died. Another person in Baysville, Virginia seems to also be interested in getting answers to numerous troubling incidents, and working together just might get Liam Andrews and Harper the resolutions that each seek. I was pulled into the storyline from the very first disturbing episode, and I remained riveted until the final uncertainty was solved. Debbie Herbert masterfully creates one mystery after another in UNMASKING THE SHADOW MAN, where nothing is assured until every puzzling development plays out.
When Harper was young, her sister’s death was said to have been an accident. Although she felt the cause might have been more sinister, nothing could be proven. Staying in her childhood home after her mother passes away, several unexplained occurrences leave her unnerved. Liam is a local cop and one of the few people in town who is willing to help her discover if the happenings in her life actually occurred or are only in her mind.
All the possible scenarios that Debbie Herbert imaginatively interweaves throughout the book are not only innovative but particularly realistic. I had no trouble at all when it came to believing each situation could have taken place, and whether any circumstances might be linked to one another is cleverly depicted. The reason behind some of the events is inventive and frequently left me stunned. I do not know how many times my thoughts about what was going on changed, and some surprising twists added to my bafflement.
The main couple is definitely likable, as I found Harper plus Liam to be especially true-to-life. She is living through a difficult time but tries to stay positive, while he is determined to see justice carried out. Both are compassionate individuals, and their actions demonstrate this trait many times. Personal motives are often what pushes Harper to uncover the details about her sister, and Liam also is driven by earlier issues in his life. The more experiences I watched this couple face, the more I came to care about their welfare. UNMASKING THE SHADOW MAN kept me totally engrossed from beginning to end.
I voluntarily reviewed the book, and all comments are my honest opinion
When Harper was young, her sister’s death was said to have been an accident. Although she felt the cause might have been more sinister, nothing could be proven. Staying in her childhood home after her mother passes away, several unexplained occurrences leave her unnerved. Liam is a local cop and one of the few people in town who is willing to help her discover if the happenings in her life actually occurred or are only in her mind.
All the possible scenarios that Debbie Herbert imaginatively interweaves throughout the book are not only innovative but particularly realistic. I had no trouble at all when it came to believing each situation could have taken place, and whether any circumstances might be linked to one another is cleverly depicted. The reason behind some of the events is inventive and frequently left me stunned. I do not know how many times my thoughts about what was going on changed, and some surprising twists added to my bafflement.
The main couple is definitely likable, as I found Harper plus Liam to be especially true-to-life. She is living through a difficult time but tries to stay positive, while he is determined to see justice carried out. Both are compassionate individuals, and their actions demonstrate this trait many times. Personal motives are often what pushes Harper to uncover the details about her sister, and Liam also is driven by earlier issues in his life. The more experiences I watched this couple face, the more I came to care about their welfare. UNMASKING THE SHADOW MAN kept me totally engrossed from beginning to end.
I voluntarily reviewed the book, and all comments are my honest opinion
August 9, 2019
I just finished this book and loved it! It definitely kept me guessing. I kept thinking I knew who the bad guy was but it turned out I had no clue. And I had ideas about what might be going on in Harper's house but it seems I didn't have a clue about that either. I was actually scared for the heroine Harper in some parts because it seemed like her house was haunted or at least something strange was going on (and I do not like horror movies!). I kept wanting to know what was going on and to find a logical explanation for it. So when I 1st started reading the book I couldn't put it down till I had read 100 pages! And I read it in 4 days (while also working full-time)! I totally recommend this exciting book by Debbie Herbert!! It was SO good!!
September 15, 2019
I just love this author’s books. She never disappoints. This one was so suspenseful with a mix of romance. I don’t know how she does it but she can always put just the right amount of romance and still keep it clean, plus be a satisfying read for those who like a lot of romance.
Liam was such a great character. He’s an undercover agent working as a cop in the local police department. He’s investigating what seems to be some bad gambling and sex trafficking goings on, not to mention the many deaths of homeless people over a stretch of years. In walks Harper with a report of some random email to get out of the house. She hasn’t been back in town long and is only there for her mother’s funeral and tie up loose ends with the house. The homeplace is too painful for her with the memory of her sister dying in the house when she was a teenager. And who or what was the creature she saw standing near the body? It was frail and dressed in rags. Now that she’s back, the eerie sounds have started all over again.
There was so much going on in this book. I couldn’t put it down. Be prepared to stay up all night reading.
Liam was such a great character. He’s an undercover agent working as a cop in the local police department. He’s investigating what seems to be some bad gambling and sex trafficking goings on, not to mention the many deaths of homeless people over a stretch of years. In walks Harper with a report of some random email to get out of the house. She hasn’t been back in town long and is only there for her mother’s funeral and tie up loose ends with the house. The homeplace is too painful for her with the memory of her sister dying in the house when she was a teenager. And who or what was the creature she saw standing near the body? It was frail and dressed in rags. Now that she’s back, the eerie sounds have started all over again.
There was so much going on in this book. I couldn’t put it down. Be prepared to stay up all night reading.
May 30, 2023
3.5*
Harper was 9 when she found her sister's body. She thought she saw someone standing over the body, but it quickly disappeared and all thought it was the imagination of a 9 year traumatized girl. 17 years later, having just lost her mother, she is back home in the house to pack things up and sell. She still hears noises and weird smells. She meets Liam after she get s a threatening email and someone tries to run her over. There is a also another mystery; someone is murdering the homeless that pass through town riding the rails. Several unsolved murders which is why Liam is in town; he is undercover to try and find out the who.
For a small town, there sure is a lot of crime going on (murder, illegal gambling, prostitution, child sexual abuse). Anyway, this was pretty entertaining for an Intrigue and one of the better ones I've read. It's nicely paced with a good amount of suspense/action and a fitting end and explanation.
Harper was 9 when she found her sister's body. She thought she saw someone standing over the body, but it quickly disappeared and all thought it was the imagination of a 9 year traumatized girl. 17 years later, having just lost her mother, she is back home in the house to pack things up and sell. She still hears noises and weird smells. She meets Liam after she get s a threatening email and someone tries to run her over. There is a also another mystery; someone is murdering the homeless that pass through town riding the rails. Several unsolved murders which is why Liam is in town; he is undercover to try and find out the who.
For a small town, there sure is a lot of crime going on (murder, illegal gambling, prostitution, child sexual abuse). Anyway, this was pretty entertaining for an Intrigue and one of the better ones I've read. It's nicely paced with a good amount of suspense/action and a fitting end and explanation.
August 22, 2019
Officer Liam Andrews is secretly working undercover and knows trouble when he sees it - trouble should be Harper Catlett’s middle name with all the mysterious goings-on in the home where Harper’s sister died decades before. Liam is soon roped into Harper’s amateur detective work as she probes Baysville’s sordid secrets. Working together, can the pair solve these long-buried crimes…before they both wind up dead?
This is a great mystery novel that has everything you need - mystery, drama, danger, not knowing who to trust, romance and a HEA. Well written and very enjoyable it was a great read that will keep you hooked and turning the pages as you speed up trying to solve the mystery and reach a satisfactory conclusion. This is a complete book in the one story and a great read which is very much recommended.
This is a great mystery novel that has everything you need - mystery, drama, danger, not knowing who to trust, romance and a HEA. Well written and very enjoyable it was a great read that will keep you hooked and turning the pages as you speed up trying to solve the mystery and reach a satisfactory conclusion. This is a complete book in the one story and a great read which is very much recommended.
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October 1, 2019Categories
Suspense, Gothic Romance, Thriller, Romantic Suspense
Suspense, Gothic Romance, Thriller, Romantic Suspense
September 22, 2019
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away.....I used to love reading gothic novels. As I have matured, I seem to have gotten away from this genre. I have loved the other books that I read by Debbie Herbert, so when I got the chance to read an ARC of this book, I decided to give it a try. I was not disappointed!
"The truth is never as painful as living a life in fear." Harper Catlett has returned to her childhood home after her mother's death and knows that she has to face the fear that has haunted her since her sister's "accidental" death. Harper swears that she saw a shadowy figure hovering over Presley's body, but everybody believes that Harper is just a little bit crazy. The fact that Harper is hearing strange noises in the house and being pursued by someone (or something) doesn't help that opinion.
Officer Liam Andrews is working undercover in Baysville, trying to get to the bottom of a string of murders of homeless men. He is sure that these murders are connected to a gambling/prostitution ring in the area, but will he be able to prove it?
As the two are thrown together in their quests for the truth, romance starts to blossom. But, can anything come of it or will their pursuers put a stop to it?
I love Ms. Herbert's writing style and this book grabs you from the very beginning and keeps moving at a fast pace to the unexpected conclusion. After reading this book, I am going to start digging for my old gothic romances! The book contains hints of violence and suggestions of sex, but nothing graphic. Just what I used to love about Harlequin Intrigue and now remember how much enjoyment I get out of these books!
"The truth is never as painful as living a life in fear." Harper Catlett has returned to her childhood home after her mother's death and knows that she has to face the fear that has haunted her since her sister's "accidental" death. Harper swears that she saw a shadowy figure hovering over Presley's body, but everybody believes that Harper is just a little bit crazy. The fact that Harper is hearing strange noises in the house and being pursued by someone (or something) doesn't help that opinion.
Officer Liam Andrews is working undercover in Baysville, trying to get to the bottom of a string of murders of homeless men. He is sure that these murders are connected to a gambling/prostitution ring in the area, but will he be able to prove it?
As the two are thrown together in their quests for the truth, romance starts to blossom. But, can anything come of it or will their pursuers put a stop to it?
I love Ms. Herbert's writing style and this book grabs you from the very beginning and keeps moving at a fast pace to the unexpected conclusion. After reading this book, I am going to start digging for my old gothic romances! The book contains hints of violence and suggestions of sex, but nothing graphic. Just what I used to love about Harlequin Intrigue and now remember how much enjoyment I get out of these books!
September 22, 2019
Harper Catlett has spent years wondering about a tragic event from her past, an event that has left holes in her life. Liam Andrews, a man from her hometown, has questions about things that may be related to Harper’s past. Each is haunted by things that neither can solve without the other. Together, they may be able to find the answers that they both need, but will they be able to do that before more trouble finds them? Well… You’ll have to read the story to find out.
This story is full of intrigue, mystery, suspense and danger. The whole book (story, characters, settings) are all so realistic that you will have no trouble imagining it happening in real life. There are new mysteries and stunning revelations around every corner. There were several moments when I felt like I needed to pinch myself to understand what I had just read, to make myself comprehend it all. I mean that in a good way. The story left me so speechless that, at times, my DH asked if I was ok. LOL!
This story kept me interested until the very end, glued to the very edge of my seat, and I know that if you give this one a chance you won’t regret a second of it.
Well done to the author on a fantastic story.
This story is full of intrigue, mystery, suspense and danger. The whole book (story, characters, settings) are all so realistic that you will have no trouble imagining it happening in real life. There are new mysteries and stunning revelations around every corner. There were several moments when I felt like I needed to pinch myself to understand what I had just read, to make myself comprehend it all. I mean that in a good way. The story left me so speechless that, at times, my DH asked if I was ok. LOL!
This story kept me interested until the very end, glued to the very edge of my seat, and I know that if you give this one a chance you won’t regret a second of it.
Well done to the author on a fantastic story.
September 16, 2019
This was first published on my blog "Lecture toute une Aventure"
My opinion:
Very interesting. A lot is happening, several investigations so the level of suspense is really high and we stay glued on our seat wanting to discover what is happening to Harper's house, what happened to her sister, who killed the homeless and so much more as the story progress....we only get the answers at the very end of the book which is wonderful. Guessing the culprit too early strip the story of part of his fun; here it's not the case.
The characters are really interesting and their personalities deep. The author built them with care and we enjoy following them in their investigation. The pace of the story is just what we need with touch of romance from time to time to balance with the dark side of some investigation so this is a really great written romance suspense .
to be recommended.
My opinion:
Very interesting. A lot is happening, several investigations so the level of suspense is really high and we stay glued on our seat wanting to discover what is happening to Harper's house, what happened to her sister, who killed the homeless and so much more as the story progress....we only get the answers at the very end of the book which is wonderful. Guessing the culprit too early strip the story of part of his fun; here it's not the case.
The characters are really interesting and their personalities deep. The author built them with care and we enjoy following them in their investigation. The pace of the story is just what we need with touch of romance from time to time to balance with the dark side of some investigation so this is a really great written romance suspense .
to be recommended.
September 17, 2019
I adore a good intrigue, one that keeps me hopping as this author can do. In this one we are given a whopper of a one. The characters will do the honor of luring us in.
Liam and Harper will have us following them as murders and secrets will be what is on the menu to uncover. Being a fan of a certain murder and mystery channel this one will rank right up there with them. Oh that Harper you can not but help like her. Hauntings will play a part of her being uneasy. Liam has alot on his plate but that doesn't stop him from getting the answers he needs. The two of them together make a good mix.
The clues will be unexpected with you thinking you know but then bam you are in the dark again but talk about a good mystery this is it.
Liam and Harper will have us following them as murders and secrets will be what is on the menu to uncover. Being a fan of a certain murder and mystery channel this one will rank right up there with them. Oh that Harper you can not but help like her. Hauntings will play a part of her being uneasy. Liam has alot on his plate but that doesn't stop him from getting the answers he needs. The two of them together make a good mix.
The clues will be unexpected with you thinking you know but then bam you are in the dark again but talk about a good mystery this is it.
September 18, 2019
Mystery, Romance , Suspense, All wrapped in this Book . Harper Catlett comes home to Baysville to take care of Her Family home after her mother passes away . Only to find that childhood memories bring up the terrible accident of her older sister . Or was it an accident. Night time brings haunting noises from the home an another sleepless night . Going through her email she received an message telling her to Get out of the House . She decides to report to the local police department. There she meets an officer that wants to hear her story. Liam Andrews he is soon helping Harper But has his own interest in helping her .
September 23, 2019
Wow. I just have to say when I had the opportunity to read one of Debbie's books as an ARC, I was bouncing up and down excited. She writes great books and this one is no exception. I was sucked into the story before I had even finished the first chapter. That is very unusual for me. You won't be able to put this book down. The characters are likable and real, not perfect but very relatable.
This is a really good book but without going into the actual story (I don't want to ruin one sentence for you) I can promise you a few goosebumps, a lot of awwws, and a cry worth ending.
Pre-Order this book. You won't regret it.
This is a really good book but without going into the actual story (I don't want to ruin one sentence for you) I can promise you a few goosebumps, a lot of awwws, and a cry worth ending.
Pre-Order this book. You won't regret it.
October 1, 2019
After her mother’s passing, Harper is back in Baysville to tie up loose ends with her mother’s estate. But as she’s doing so, she discovers more information about her sisters ‘accidental’ death many years ago. Officer Andrews comes to town undercover to learn what’s really going on with a string of murders. When the two of them team up, sparks fly but their lives are also at risk. Will they learn the truth regarding both of their missions before it’s too late. After all, the culprit is on to them.
August 16, 2019
I have really love this book.
Something mysterious is going on in Baysville, hometown of Harper. Especially in her childhood house where her sister died more than a decade ago. At first it seems like her house might be haunted, but sometimes else definitly going on. She will pair up with officer Liam Andrews to solve Baysville’s sordid secrets and her sister dead. Cause Harper know that it wasn't just an accident.
I have received an arc of this book by the author.
Something mysterious is going on in Baysville, hometown of Harper. Especially in her childhood house where her sister died more than a decade ago. At first it seems like her house might be haunted, but sometimes else definitly going on. She will pair up with officer Liam Andrews to solve Baysville’s sordid secrets and her sister dead. Cause Harper know that it wasn't just an accident.
I have received an arc of this book by the author.
September 18, 2019
Hmmm....it's been a minute since I've read an Intrigue. I had truly forgotten what they were like...so I was intrigued (no pun intended) when I received a copy of this book. All I can say is, Wow! I have been really missing out on things.
The characters (main and secondary), the storyline, the danger and intrigue, and ultimately the resolution, make this book a real page-turner. Ms. Herbert is a wicked-good storyteller. I definitely recommend this book.
The characters (main and secondary), the storyline, the danger and intrigue, and ultimately the resolution, make this book a real page-turner. Ms. Herbert is a wicked-good storyteller. I definitely recommend this book.
September 28, 2019
Harper is back in her childhood home trying to settle her Mother's estate. She has never at ease in her childhood home since her older sister died and everyone believed that she made up a monster that night. Is the past coming back to haunt her or was there much more to her sister's death? A handsome sexy newcomer to town may be able to help her both solve the mystery and provide more than comfort to her!
October 1, 2019
Great story about a girl with a haunted past, one she must confront to get to the bottom of the mystery. When Harper's sister died under suspicious circumstances as a teenager, she returns years later to discover the truth.
Liam is the only one who doesn't think she's crazy.
Can they work together to solve they mystery before it's too late?
This book gave me chills. Don't read it when you're alone in the house, it will freak you out!
September 17, 2019
Unmasking the Shadow Man is a suspenseful thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From the beginning until the end I couldn't put this book down. It had a suspenseful storyline, with mystery, danger and great characters. I can't wait to read the next book and I would definitely recommend this one.
September 27, 2019
How can you go wrong with a spooky mystery romance?
As a huge fan of Debbie Herbert's novels - romances, mysteries, and thrillers alike - I wasn't disappointed a bit in Unmasking the Shadow Man. The romance was sweet and the mystery kept me guessing from page one.
It's a fantastic read particularly with Halloween coming up. Highly recommended.
As a huge fan of Debbie Herbert's novels - romances, mysteries, and thrillers alike - I wasn't disappointed a bit in Unmasking the Shadow Man. The romance was sweet and the mystery kept me guessing from page one.
It's a fantastic read particularly with Halloween coming up. Highly recommended.
September 18, 2019
Action packed, emotional, engaging and exciting adventure filled with danger, mystery and highly intriguing charters... a thrilling read from beginning to end. Really enjoyed every heart racing twist and turn in this journey.
August 16, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Continuous happenings. I could not guess who done it. Romance, suspense, murders and mayhem. This book has it all.
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October 1, 2019Categories
Suspense, Gothic Romance, Thriller, Romantic Suspense
Suspense, Gothic Romance, Thriller, Romantic Suspense
October 20, 2019
This book kept me guessing.All the way through to the very end. Liam and Harper work well together. So good highly recommend
July 30, 2024
2.6/5.
Entretenido, buena trama aunque un poco predecible, la ejecución podría haber sido mejor (se sintió apresurada en algunas partes).
Como cosa rara, la protagonista tiene el cabello rojo. 😆
Entretenido, buena trama aunque un poco predecible, la ejecución podría haber sido mejor (se sintió apresurada en algunas partes).
Como cosa rara, la protagonista tiene el cabello rojo. 😆
August 18, 2019
Back in the day, I loved Harlequin Intrigue, but somehow I sorta drifted away. But thanks to authors like Debbie Herbert, I'm back!!!!
This book has wonderful characters, a great plot, and is filled with page turning, murder, mayhem, unpredictable twists and turns, and yes, a little romance.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
#RaceAgainstTime #Secrets #Liam #Harper #DebbieHerbet #HarlequinIntrigue
This book has wonderful characters, a great plot, and is filled with page turning, murder, mayhem, unpredictable twists and turns, and yes, a little romance.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
#RaceAgainstTime #Secrets #Liam #Harper #DebbieHerbet #HarlequinIntrigue
August 17, 2019
I really liked this book. I enjoyed that I didn't see the twists coming for the most part, I think I only predicted 1 thing so that was a win for me personally. Pacing and writing was great. I loved the main characters personalities too. I received an ARC of this book, however, my review is 100% my opinion and is my own. Can't wait to read more from this author.
September 17, 2019
Another great read by this author! What's going on in the house Harper grew up in? That's the question and will she find out the answer. Add Liam a police officer who may not be who he seems and a best friend who has her own agenda. Mystery and romance make for a must read book!
December 28, 2020
I did not see where this was going the whole book and I was caught off guard at the end. Very good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews