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The Investigators #3
Flatline
People are dying in Dr. Joshua Salvador’s ER. His medical assistant, only weeks from delivering her baby, hangs on to life by a thread. The symptoms seem horrifyingly familiar, and he begins to suspect the deaths are targeted at him. But, before he can figure things out, top TV investigator Rachel Wright is standing in the middle of his ER, convinced an outbreak, an epidemic, or even a botched flu vaccine could be the cause, and she’s going to tell the world.
Each book in the Investigators series is STANDALONE:
* Alive at 5
* Cuba Undercover
* Flatline
Each book in the Investigators series is STANDALONE:
* Alive at 5
* Cuba Undercover
* Flatline
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2020
24 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
About the author
Linda Hurtado Bond
6 books285 followersBe sure to follow Linda Hurtado Bond on BookBub for the latest book info: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda...
Author Linda Hurtado Bond is an Emmy award winning TV news anchor and an author of romantic thrillers.
She’s worked as a television news reporter and anchor in Fort Myers, Orlando and Tampa Florida. For the past twenty years, she’s shared important information with viewers on the latest medical breakthroughs and has written emotional, human-interest stories on those who have the courage and spirit to fight for their lives.
She writes every day, under deadline, but has always loved losing herself in a good fiction story. Her love for writing fiction actually started in high school, but a thriving, busy professional life, along with five kids ( 2 step-kids, an adopted son from Cuba and 2 daughters ) kept her busy for many years.
Entangled Publishing released three romantic adventures Alive at 5, Cuba Undercover and Flatline. Think James Bond meets Romancing the Stone. Cuba Undercover is based on her own true life love story.
She has received numerous writing awards for Alive at 5 , Flatline and Cuba Undercover.
Her latest book, All the Broken Girls, releasing in 2022, features two Cuban American characters and a deep dive into Cuban American culture.
Linda has won 13 Emmy awards, numerous Society of Professional Journalist awards, Associated Press awards, as well as a Florida Bar award and an Edward R. Murrow award.
This former baton-twirling beauty queen from The University of Georgia, now lives in Tampa Florida with her husband and kids.
Author Linda Hurtado Bond is an Emmy award winning TV news anchor and an author of romantic thrillers.
She’s worked as a television news reporter and anchor in Fort Myers, Orlando and Tampa Florida. For the past twenty years, she’s shared important information with viewers on the latest medical breakthroughs and has written emotional, human-interest stories on those who have the courage and spirit to fight for their lives.
She writes every day, under deadline, but has always loved losing herself in a good fiction story. Her love for writing fiction actually started in high school, but a thriving, busy professional life, along with five kids ( 2 step-kids, an adopted son from Cuba and 2 daughters ) kept her busy for many years.
Entangled Publishing released three romantic adventures Alive at 5, Cuba Undercover and Flatline. Think James Bond meets Romancing the Stone. Cuba Undercover is based on her own true life love story.
She has received numerous writing awards for Alive at 5 , Flatline and Cuba Undercover.
Her latest book, All the Broken Girls, releasing in 2022, features two Cuban American characters and a deep dive into Cuban American culture.
Linda has won 13 Emmy awards, numerous Society of Professional Journalist awards, Associated Press awards, as well as a Florida Bar award and an Edward R. Murrow award.
This former baton-twirling beauty queen from The University of Georgia, now lives in Tampa Florida with her husband and kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 25, 2020
Joshua Salvador, ER Physician, is losing his patients. Several have already presented with the same symptoms and died.
One of his patients who didn't survive is the close friend of Rachel Wright, TV Investigator. He and Rachel have a history .. they were lovers a few years earlier. When her brother died and Joshua couldn't save him, she was overcome with grief and did an expose on Joshua and his partners. That was the end of their relationship.
Joshua is looking for a common denominator as the symptoms are almost identical. Because all the patients who have died have been connected to him in a personal way, he feels that someone is targeting him. But who would want him ruined .. .if not Rachel?
Although this is 3rd in a series, it is easily read as a stand alone, as are each of the books in the Investigative series. The author has brought credibility to her story with her personal experience as a television news reporter and anchor in Florida.
I enjoyed the robust plot with a nicely paced suspense and romance. It's a skillfully written medical thriller with memorable characters that raced to an unexpected conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Entangled Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of FLATLINE. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
One of his patients who didn't survive is the close friend of Rachel Wright, TV Investigator. He and Rachel have a history .. they were lovers a few years earlier. When her brother died and Joshua couldn't save him, she was overcome with grief and did an expose on Joshua and his partners. That was the end of their relationship.
Joshua is looking for a common denominator as the symptoms are almost identical. Because all the patients who have died have been connected to him in a personal way, he feels that someone is targeting him. But who would want him ruined .. .if not Rachel?
Although this is 3rd in a series, it is easily read as a stand alone, as are each of the books in the Investigative series. The author has brought credibility to her story with her personal experience as a television news reporter and anchor in Florida.
I enjoyed the robust plot with a nicely paced suspense and romance. It's a skillfully written medical thriller with memorable characters that raced to an unexpected conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Entangled Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of FLATLINE. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
May 26, 2020
Rachel Wright is frantic when she rushes her friend Jackie and producer to the hospital. This hospital brings back terrible memories to Rachel because that was where and brother died - which led to an exposé she wrote. As a reporter, Rachel always dug deep for facts, but it was her brother's death and that particular story that pretty much took her very high in her field.
The last doctor she hopes to attend to Jackie is Doctor Joshua Salvador. Not only was he the doctor on scene when Rachel's brother died, but he was also the man she was desperately in love with for awhile. Suddenly, with more than one death at the hospital, Rachel is clued into the fact that there is a connection.
Rachel begins to dig, and it looks like there is a fatal contagious disease affecting patients at the hospital. Can Rachel, and now Joshua, discover what is really going on before another patient dies? Furthermore, what of the past, and the story Rachel wrote? Is the damage that was done to her relationship with Joshua something that can be revived?
In this fast-paced book by Linda Bond, different avenues are taken - investigation, romance and even family. It would be odd for me not to say that with what is going on in the world today, a horrible disease that is killing people, to not feel a bit of discomfort while reading this book. Fortunately, not only is this book fiction, but due to the genre being that of romantic suspense, the reader won't be surprised that "things work out in the end" for all involved. The tension factor was high throughout the book and the conclusion was riveting. Although this is the third book in the series, it did quite well as a standalone.
Many thanks to Entangled: Amara and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The last doctor she hopes to attend to Jackie is Doctor Joshua Salvador. Not only was he the doctor on scene when Rachel's brother died, but he was also the man she was desperately in love with for awhile. Suddenly, with more than one death at the hospital, Rachel is clued into the fact that there is a connection.
Rachel begins to dig, and it looks like there is a fatal contagious disease affecting patients at the hospital. Can Rachel, and now Joshua, discover what is really going on before another patient dies? Furthermore, what of the past, and the story Rachel wrote? Is the damage that was done to her relationship with Joshua something that can be revived?
In this fast-paced book by Linda Bond, different avenues are taken - investigation, romance and even family. It would be odd for me not to say that with what is going on in the world today, a horrible disease that is killing people, to not feel a bit of discomfort while reading this book. Fortunately, not only is this book fiction, but due to the genre being that of romantic suspense, the reader won't be surprised that "things work out in the end" for all involved. The tension factor was high throughout the book and the conclusion was riveting. Although this is the third book in the series, it did quite well as a standalone.
Many thanks to Entangled: Amara and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 13, 2020
To read about a contagion that’s spreading amongst some people—though it’s early days yet—is uncanny for this specific time, even though there’s so much that we can collectively relate to right now. Linda Bond’s ‘Flatline’ however, isn’t a medical thriller per se despite the science-y cover, but it’s a story that straddles the romance genre here, built as it is around 2 former lovers whose turbulent past came to a head 5 years ago.
In this second-chance trope, Dr. Joshua Salvador and Rachel Wright come face to face again during a medical emergency and the lines of their conflict are reiterated in this case of history repeating itself: both their reputations are on the line, keeping their pride in their unshakable work foundations, combined with a time-sensitive medical issue that could potentially explode into something bigger and some grey areas where both learn that compromising and trust could be the hardest things they need to do.
‘Flatline’ is predictable in that sense, as well-written as it is, driven forward speedily by the developing case and Joshua/Rachel’s constant revisitation of each other along with their numerous reminiscences of what they used to do in the past. If the starting of the book is a one of possibilities, the second half sort of ‘contracts’, bringing the case closer to one of personal grudges/revenge-plot more than a spiralling, out-of-control pandemic. Still, Linda Bond writes decisively and competently but my complaint however, is the very abrupt end that had me doing a double-take—movie-ish in a way just as the credits roll—even as I was hoping for something more conclusive.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
In this second-chance trope, Dr. Joshua Salvador and Rachel Wright come face to face again during a medical emergency and the lines of their conflict are reiterated in this case of history repeating itself: both their reputations are on the line, keeping their pride in their unshakable work foundations, combined with a time-sensitive medical issue that could potentially explode into something bigger and some grey areas where both learn that compromising and trust could be the hardest things they need to do.
‘Flatline’ is predictable in that sense, as well-written as it is, driven forward speedily by the developing case and Joshua/Rachel’s constant revisitation of each other along with their numerous reminiscences of what they used to do in the past. If the starting of the book is a one of possibilities, the second half sort of ‘contracts’, bringing the case closer to one of personal grudges/revenge-plot more than a spiralling, out-of-control pandemic. Still, Linda Bond writes decisively and competently but my complaint however, is the very abrupt end that had me doing a double-take—movie-ish in a way just as the credits roll—even as I was hoping for something more conclusive.
*ARC by the publisher via Netgalley
May 28, 2020
The title is flat. The story is flat. The characters are flat.
Had to give up at about page 35 or so.
Someone who thinks she has to 'investigate' and 'report' about medical situations she obviously knows nothing about? Just because she hooked up with a doctor who's department she 'investigated'.
Don't make me laugh, please...
It doesn't help that even from the first chapters it is obvious where this is leading to. This book should have had a cover where a handsome man in a white coat (the doctor) is kissing a handsome lady (the investigator). Very Mills and Boon...
Thanks to Netgally for this digital review copy.
Had to give up at about page 35 or so.
Someone who thinks she has to 'investigate' and 'report' about medical situations she obviously knows nothing about? Just because she hooked up with a doctor who's department she 'investigated'.
Don't make me laugh, please...
It doesn't help that even from the first chapters it is obvious where this is leading to. This book should have had a cover where a handsome man in a white coat (the doctor) is kissing a handsome lady (the investigator). Very Mills and Boon...
Thanks to Netgally for this digital review copy.
May 25, 2020
My Thoughts:
Bond was a new to me author and one I'll read again. I am a sucker for medical thrillers, and when you combine it with romance, well...Maybe because there's usually a resolution, or even a happy ending? Maybe because I can vicariously live through something awful and be just fine? Well, this book met all that, although it was light on the science, and the real world medical crisis didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the book at all.
"Flatline" took former lovers Rachel and Joshua and reunited them under horrific circumstances - Rachel's friend and producer Jackie dies violently under Joshua's care at the ER. Rachel and Joshua broke up five years ago when Rachel's brother Jim died under Joshua's care at the ER. Rachel blamed Joshua and in her grief used her credentials at the television station to attack Joshua and his boss, which did wonders for her career. Joshua reacted by dumping her. Clearly, neither communication nor empathy were their strengths. They do better by the end of the story; although I did think Joshua could have done a better job of apologizing for dumping her right after her brother's death and blaming her for her emotions. She apologized to him for the harcore TV story she did, and did a good job of apologizing; he could have done better, and should have groveled. He had a bad habit of thinking that his job should take precedence over hers.
The mystery of the unknown illness was not too hard to figure out though Bond did surprise me a few times. For one thing, I thought she was going in one direction with an ex-lover plot and then she surprised me, happily so. The villains, well, I got one right. :D I did think the motive was a little weak, but it had a ring of believability so that was fine. There was a very tense event near the end that I did not see coming, although the outcome was predictable. The story was fast-paced, and, as I mentioned, had some twists.
"Flatline" wasn't deep but it was appealing, the romance was steamy if at times aggravating (Joshua could be such an arrogant jerk and Rachel was too quick to doubt herself), and parts of the story were predictable. And yet, it was compelling; I didn't want to put it down and I cared what happened. I'm still not 100% convinced that Rachel and Joshua should be together but I'm happy they got past their issues and they saved the day. If you want a quick, light, moderately angsty read with romance and mystery, this is for you.
Bond was a new to me author and one I'll read again. I am a sucker for medical thrillers, and when you combine it with romance, well...Maybe because there's usually a resolution, or even a happy ending? Maybe because I can vicariously live through something awful and be just fine? Well, this book met all that, although it was light on the science, and the real world medical crisis didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the book at all.
"Flatline" took former lovers Rachel and Joshua and reunited them under horrific circumstances - Rachel's friend and producer Jackie dies violently under Joshua's care at the ER. Rachel and Joshua broke up five years ago when Rachel's brother Jim died under Joshua's care at the ER. Rachel blamed Joshua and in her grief used her credentials at the television station to attack Joshua and his boss, which did wonders for her career. Joshua reacted by dumping her. Clearly, neither communication nor empathy were their strengths. They do better by the end of the story; although I did think Joshua could have done a better job of apologizing for dumping her right after her brother's death and blaming her for her emotions. She apologized to him for the harcore TV story she did, and did a good job of apologizing; he could have done better, and should have groveled. He had a bad habit of thinking that his job should take precedence over hers.
The mystery of the unknown illness was not too hard to figure out though Bond did surprise me a few times. For one thing, I thought she was going in one direction with an ex-lover plot and then she surprised me, happily so. The villains, well, I got one right. :D I did think the motive was a little weak, but it had a ring of believability so that was fine. There was a very tense event near the end that I did not see coming, although the outcome was predictable. The story was fast-paced, and, as I mentioned, had some twists.
"Flatline" wasn't deep but it was appealing, the romance was steamy if at times aggravating (Joshua could be such an arrogant jerk and Rachel was too quick to doubt herself), and parts of the story were predictable. And yet, it was compelling; I didn't want to put it down and I cared what happened. I'm still not 100% convinced that Rachel and Joshua should be together but I'm happy they got past their issues and they saved the day. If you want a quick, light, moderately angsty read with romance and mystery, this is for you.
May 5, 2020
Flatline by Linda Bond is a cross between a medical thriller and a romantic comedy. Within 48 hours, three patients have been admitted to the ER under Dr. Joshua Salvador, each expressing the same symptoms. Incidentally, all of them are closely associated with him, and two of them have died in an exactly similar manner, despite all his efforts. The situation becomes even more complicated when Joshua’s ex, Rachel Wright, gets involved in the case. A reporter-cum-investigator, Rachel has a turbulent history with him. As the danger of a medical emergency becomes too imminent, will Joshua and Rachel be able to overlook the old differences and work together towards a single goal?
Both the protagonists show a formidable strength of character. Despite the threats to their lives, they remain undaunted in their quest. The plot had many components of a thriller, including a considerably good pace, unforeseen twists, and midnight adventures. The threat of a deadly biotoxin and possible involvement of a sinister group behind the rising disaster increase the suspense. As a romantic comedy, sexual tension is also present on almost every page. In short, Flatline ensures your heart skips a beat or two frequently.
However, the tension built up from the first page gradually loses its hold as the romantic aspect starts to overshadow the thriller parts. Rachel and Joshua are acutely aware of each other, continuously evaluating the other’s body language and responses throughout the book. They keep focussing on each other even at the crucial moments of the novel when more pressing matters should have been prioritized. For this very reason, what could have been a breath-taking climax ends up being a soppy romantic drama.
I would wholeheartedly suggest this book to readers who appreciate romantic thrillers. However, if you are a fan of hardcore medical thrillers, you might feel dissatisfied with the places where romance takes precedence above everything.
Both the protagonists show a formidable strength of character. Despite the threats to their lives, they remain undaunted in their quest. The plot had many components of a thriller, including a considerably good pace, unforeseen twists, and midnight adventures. The threat of a deadly biotoxin and possible involvement of a sinister group behind the rising disaster increase the suspense. As a romantic comedy, sexual tension is also present on almost every page. In short, Flatline ensures your heart skips a beat or two frequently.
However, the tension built up from the first page gradually loses its hold as the romantic aspect starts to overshadow the thriller parts. Rachel and Joshua are acutely aware of each other, continuously evaluating the other’s body language and responses throughout the book. They keep focussing on each other even at the crucial moments of the novel when more pressing matters should have been prioritized. For this very reason, what could have been a breath-taking climax ends up being a soppy romantic drama.
I would wholeheartedly suggest this book to readers who appreciate romantic thrillers. However, if you are a fan of hardcore medical thrillers, you might feel dissatisfied with the places where romance takes precedence above everything.
May 14, 2020
3.5 Stars!
A quick, fun read! Rachel Wright, investigative reporter has stumbled upon people that are dying from a mysterious, flu-like illness. Quite a timely and appropriate topic! Rachel's ex, Dr. Joshua Salvador is an ER doctor. This illness has pulled these two back into the same orbit and whoooo! The sparks are still flying! I loved the fast pace of the story and all of the twists and turns.
This was my first experience reading Linda bond, but it will certainly not be my last. Can't wait to check out her two other novels.
Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, LLC, and Linda Bond for providing me with an ARC.
A quick, fun read! Rachel Wright, investigative reporter has stumbled upon people that are dying from a mysterious, flu-like illness. Quite a timely and appropriate topic! Rachel's ex, Dr. Joshua Salvador is an ER doctor. This illness has pulled these two back into the same orbit and whoooo! The sparks are still flying! I loved the fast pace of the story and all of the twists and turns.
This was my first experience reading Linda bond, but it will certainly not be my last. Can't wait to check out her two other novels.
Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, LLC, and Linda Bond for providing me with an ARC.
May 28, 2020
Synopsis:
Rachel Wright, an investigative reporter, reaches with her very sick producer to the Tampa Bay Hospital. Unpleasant memories from the past resurface, along with her ex, Dr Joshua Salvador. The same doctor who she blames for her brother’s death. And so, she doesn’t trust him to save her friend’s life.
Joshua will never forget the way Rachel attempted to tarnish his and his team of ER physician’s reputation. He doesn’t want her stepping foot in his hospital. But when he sees her bring in a patient with the same symptoms of which a few people close to him are dying of, will they be able to set aside their differences and work together before everything goes out of hand?
Review:
This is the first book I’m reading of Linda Bond’s and the first which starts with thunderous medical action, together with a blast from the past of both good and bad memories. But mostly sad. After losing her brother five years ago, within a year of her sister-in-law dying, she became the guardian of her seven-year-old niece. Losing another person dear to her, right before her eyes, makes her don her investigative hat on. Which is exactly what Joshua fears, that she will again blame him instead of trusting him. He has his suspicions about the mysterious illness that’s been plaguing people close to him.
The short length of the chapters made this a read I breezed through. Narrated in the third person, what I noted was how the previous chapter’s ending action was repeated in the next chapter in the beginning, just from a different perspective. I don’t think it’s something altogether new (maybe it is?), but I surely haven’t read anything like that for quite a long while now. And the turn that the plot took towards the end, I kind of wasn’t expecting that.
The above quote is so apt, especially in today’s scenario and in my country – India. India, where doctors are getting verbally as well as physically attacked during this lockdown period. And the weird or funny coincidence was that this story too had an Indian connection, albeit briefly.
For my Medical romance needs, I’ve always turned to Harlequin Medical. But this combined two of my favourite sub-genres in romance. Medical and Suspense! To top it off, it had its sexy and funny moments too. This was thrilling from the get-go. Whether it be sneak attacks or the danger of doing something illegal but not immoral, it was a wonderful read. There was the doctor’s ex, the reporter’s niece, murders, deaths, and of course, the compassionate/crazy villain! I just wanted an epilogue at the end, though.
P.S. I have seen Grey’s Anatomy enough to enjoy the author’s references to the show. McDreamy. Sigh!
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an e-ARC of the book.
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
Rachel Wright, an investigative reporter, reaches with her very sick producer to the Tampa Bay Hospital. Unpleasant memories from the past resurface, along with her ex, Dr Joshua Salvador. The same doctor who she blames for her brother’s death. And so, she doesn’t trust him to save her friend’s life.
Joshua will never forget the way Rachel attempted to tarnish his and his team of ER physician’s reputation. He doesn’t want her stepping foot in his hospital. But when he sees her bring in a patient with the same symptoms of which a few people close to him are dying of, will they be able to set aside their differences and work together before everything goes out of hand?
Review:
This is the first book I’m reading of Linda Bond’s and the first which starts with thunderous medical action, together with a blast from the past of both good and bad memories. But mostly sad. After losing her brother five years ago, within a year of her sister-in-law dying, she became the guardian of her seven-year-old niece. Losing another person dear to her, right before her eyes, makes her don her investigative hat on. Which is exactly what Joshua fears, that she will again blame him instead of trusting him. He has his suspicions about the mysterious illness that’s been plaguing people close to him.
The short length of the chapters made this a read I breezed through. Narrated in the third person, what I noted was how the previous chapter’s ending action was repeated in the next chapter in the beginning, just from a different perspective. I don’t think it’s something altogether new (maybe it is?), but I surely haven’t read anything like that for quite a long while now. And the turn that the plot took towards the end, I kind of wasn’t expecting that.
Doctors were human, too. They made mistakes. They suffered the consequences. They had feelings. They never wanted their patients to die.
The above quote is so apt, especially in today’s scenario and in my country – India. India, where doctors are getting verbally as well as physically attacked during this lockdown period. And the weird or funny coincidence was that this story too had an Indian connection, albeit briefly.
For my Medical romance needs, I’ve always turned to Harlequin Medical. But this combined two of my favourite sub-genres in romance. Medical and Suspense! To top it off, it had its sexy and funny moments too. This was thrilling from the get-go. Whether it be sneak attacks or the danger of doing something illegal but not immoral, it was a wonderful read. There was the doctor’s ex, the reporter’s niece, murders, deaths, and of course, the compassionate/crazy villain! I just wanted an epilogue at the end, though.
P.S. I have seen Grey’s Anatomy enough to enjoy the author’s references to the show. McDreamy. Sigh!
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an e-ARC of the book.
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
April 30, 2020
This is the first I have read by Linda Bond and book 3 in a series or can be read as a stand a lone called The Investigators.
The story follows a doctor in the ER who is right in the middle of a virus that no one is able to control and a new reporter who is about to make her epic news.
The story is spot on with how people are feeling right now as it answers some questions about a outbreak while keeping the story moving without being bombard with medical jargon.
The story is face pace and readers of the series will love to see what is going with their characters and add a new set of characters to fall in love with.
This is a must read summer read for those who need a break from family but still want a little action in the outbreak world.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Linda Bond Flatline.
The story follows a doctor in the ER who is right in the middle of a virus that no one is able to control and a new reporter who is about to make her epic news.
The story is spot on with how people are feeling right now as it answers some questions about a outbreak while keeping the story moving without being bombard with medical jargon.
The story is face pace and readers of the series will love to see what is going with their characters and add a new set of characters to fall in love with.
This is a must read summer read for those who need a break from family but still want a little action in the outbreak world.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Linda Bond Flatline.
May 25, 2020
I have never heard of this author before but the storyline sounded good so I thought why not.
Joshua Salvador is a Dr. in the local ER. Rachel Wright is a investigative reporter. They were lovers until tragedy strikes. 5 years later patients connected to Joshua are dying.
This is a fast paced romantic suspense. Not a whole lot of romance but a superb storyline. In the craziness of today’s world it’s unsettling to think about this happening. Really makes you think twice.
I will definitely check out more from this author. If you like Pamela Clair’s I Team series you’ll love this book.
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
Joshua Salvador is a Dr. in the local ER. Rachel Wright is a investigative reporter. They were lovers until tragedy strikes. 5 years later patients connected to Joshua are dying.
This is a fast paced romantic suspense. Not a whole lot of romance but a superb storyline. In the craziness of today’s world it’s unsettling to think about this happening. Really makes you think twice.
I will definitely check out more from this author. If you like Pamela Clair’s I Team series you’ll love this book.
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
June 10, 2020
Let me just start by saying that I love medical thrillers. There is just something about suspense and intrigue along with a medical element thrown in that really holds my interest. Rachel Wright is standing in the ER, worried to death about her sick friend. And out of all the doctors that could treat her friend, in walks her ex, Dr. Joshua Salvador. Unfortunately, it seems that there is more to this illness and others than meets the eye. One thing I forgot to mention is that Rachel is a top TV investigator. If there is something going on, she is going to get the story behind the story. However, now she appears to be a part of the story. What will happen between her and Dr. Salvador as they work discover what is going on before it is too late? I devoured this book in a very short period. Every time I put it down to move to something else, I ended up going back to it. That, to me, is the sign of a really good book. I hated for it to end and would really like to see a sequel to this story. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the opportunity to review this book.
May 25, 2020
Linda Bond is a new to me author, and boy am I ever in love. Flatline came out of the gates at a dead run, and it never slowed down for a second. People who are connected to Dr. Joshua Salvador are dying in his ER, and he's not sure what to do. Rachel Wright brought her good friend to the ER, and said good friend died, and this connection to Joshua is Rachel. See, they were in deep until she wrote a story after her brother died in that ER, and he felt betrayed so he dumped her without a thought. Rachel is a very good reporter who will get down to nitty gritty to bring things out of the darkness into the light. They end up working together on find out the who & why of it, which brought on some super crazy twists & turns that got my f-bombs dropping loud & proud, and while they are investigating things, they realize that their connection & chemistry is still in full force. However, the danger is still stalking them so will the expose who dun it before it's too late?! You'll have to hit those one click buttons to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
May 29, 2020
3 1/2 Stars!
"Five years since she'd investigated Joshua's ER physicians' group for medical malpractice."
Rachel's last experience in this hospital ended with her brother dying and her boyfriend leaving her.
This time, she's losing a friend to an illness that no one can figure out. Before long, Rachel discovers this isn't the only mysterious death at the hospital.
Dr. Josh Salvador didn't let Rachel go without regret years ago. Now that they are thrown together to figure out what is causing these unexpected deaths. Josh wants to earn Rachel's trust in him back. Rachel wants to believe in him again.
This story twists and turns. It's a good story!
"Five years since she'd investigated Joshua's ER physicians' group for medical malpractice."
Rachel's last experience in this hospital ended with her brother dying and her boyfriend leaving her.
This time, she's losing a friend to an illness that no one can figure out. Before long, Rachel discovers this isn't the only mysterious death at the hospital.
Dr. Josh Salvador didn't let Rachel go without regret years ago. Now that they are thrown together to figure out what is causing these unexpected deaths. Josh wants to earn Rachel's trust in him back. Rachel wants to believe in him again.
This story twists and turns. It's a good story!
May 25, 2020
First, I want to thank Linda Bond, Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
WOW!! Linda Bond’s Flatline blew me away as it was a storyline ripped from the headlines. Infact, at first it reminded me of what is going on in the world today.
Warning you right now once you pick up Flatline you won’t want to put it down! This is a must read medical thriller! Linda sucked me in on the first page. The storyline was incredibly fast paced and very detailed. It was thrilling, suspenseful, and had some shocking moments I didn’t see coming.
I loved the storyline of the Doctor and Rachel. Their backstory was interesting to how far it came in the present.
There was a mention of Grey’s Anatomy (one of my favorite shows) that I had a chuckle over.
WOW!! Linda Bond’s Flatline blew me away as it was a storyline ripped from the headlines. Infact, at first it reminded me of what is going on in the world today.
Warning you right now once you pick up Flatline you won’t want to put it down! This is a must read medical thriller! Linda sucked me in on the first page. The storyline was incredibly fast paced and very detailed. It was thrilling, suspenseful, and had some shocking moments I didn’t see coming.
I loved the storyline of the Doctor and Rachel. Their backstory was interesting to how far it came in the present.
There was a mention of Grey’s Anatomy (one of my favorite shows) that I had a chuckle over.
June 13, 2020
J’ai moyennement apprécié les personnages, en particulier le héros qui ne s’excuse même pas de son comportement passé. L’histoire va vite mais il y a des manques dans les explications. Le tout est insatisfaisant, dommage.
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May 26, 2020
Another author that can keep you from start to finish with the suspense and intrigue that will be held in the pages of a mystery that has deaths that needs answers. Once again having read this author once before with the one before this also I knew I needed this one. Rachel hooks us right off the bat with this one when she takes her friend to ER. The events will go so fast but you are holding on. You also want to see what can happen with the doc too. This is also one that has the ingredients for what I have been reading alot. You could say this is a second chance too. Joshua is no dummy either so that was a plus. You want answers and fast which you will get if you keep up with them.
May 25, 2020
This was an enjoyable and fast-paced story. It was one that I sat down and read in a day. For the most part, the characters were likable, but that is the way it should be. They seemed like real people, things you like about them and some things you don't. There were multiple aspects to the story and a twist near the end. It was interesting to see where things were going, on more than one level, as you read the book.
The writing good, and really brought you into the what was going on. You could put yourself in the place of the characters as things were taking place.
The writing good, and really brought you into the what was going on. You could put yourself in the place of the characters as things were taking place.
May 26, 2020
I love medical thrillers and if there is a love interest, it is a perfect combination! Joshua is a renowned ER doctor and Rachel is a well known and respected tv investigator. They were involved in the past but the romance came to an abrupt end. People are dying in Joshua’s ER and Rachel is afraid Joshua is involved in the deaths. But there is no denying there is still chemistry between them. Enjoyable thriller.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 28, 2020
I won this book on a goodreads giveaway. This book was a medical mystery very similar to a Robin Cook mystery. I enjoyed the twists and turns with suspense right to the last page. Altho a quick and easy read, it was a great quarantine read!
May 26, 2020
Flatline was my first book from Linda Bond and I am now catching up on the rest of the series. I was caught up in the story right from the beginning. Flatline was a smooth but steady read with a good mix of elements to keep me engaged to the end and wanting to find out all the answers. Flatline is definitely one book to keep poolside or in your beach/lake bag!
My rating 3.5 hearts
My rating 3.5 hearts
May 25, 2020
Thank you so much NetGalley and the publisher for my complimentary eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. This book was very well written, the characters had depth and which for me made a really enjoyable read. I don't usually read medical mystery thriller books but I am really glad I gave it a chance.
May 20, 2020
So this was a weird mashup of thriller and romance. Rachel and Joshua used to date until Rachel's brother, Jim, died in Joshua's ER. Then Rachel used her investigative reporter skills to slam the ER and handle her grief. She lost Joshua in the process.
Then her friend Jackie ends up sick, and died in the very same ER she lost her brother in. But this time Joshua was the Dr and he did everything he could to save her. More people end up with the same symptoms and they're all connected to Joshua.
So he and Rachel team up to find out what's going on. And fall in love again. There was a pit bull attack and that kinda put me off for the rest of the book. I love pit bulls. Next time use a breed that isn't already hated by society.
Then her friend Jackie ends up sick, and died in the very same ER she lost her brother in. But this time Joshua was the Dr and he did everything he could to save her. More people end up with the same symptoms and they're all connected to Joshua.
So he and Rachel team up to find out what's going on. And fall in love again. There was a pit bull attack and that kinda put me off for the rest of the book. I love pit bulls. Next time use a breed that isn't already hated by society.
May 25, 2020
A fast paced medical thriller. Joshua and Rachel have history and now they are thrown together to try and figure out who is killing people they both know. The author keeps us turning the pages and guessing who the killer is almost till the very end. When you think you have it figured out another twist is dropped in. This is a quick and interesting read that is easy to get lost in.
April 30, 2020
Overall rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 stars
I received an ARC in exchange of my honest review.
I love romance books but romantic suspense is my all time favourite genre. Add a medical drama in the mix and I will be a very happy girl.
This book follows star investigative reporter Rachel Wright and her ex boyfriend, ER Doctor Joshua Salvador (aka Dr McDreamy). Patients coming to Dr Salvador's ER are dying with mysterious symptoms. Specially people close to Josh. Unfortunately this books opens with a similar scene where we see both Rachel and Josh reunite after five years but under very unfortunate circumstances. Both of them lose not one but two very close friends and colleagues having the same mysterious symptoms. We instantly get to know Josh and Rachel's relationship ended in a tragic way but the story is focused on how they both had to work together in the time of crisis.
To be honest, the suspense part of the story was pretty good. I couldn't have guessed the culprit behind all these mysterious deaths. So I enjoyed that aspect. The story is kind of short but the timing is pretty great. The author successfully concluded the story within a matter of a few chapters without dragging anything out. There were no flashbacks but we get to know both Rachel and Josh's point of view and that helped to understand events better. The supporting characters are great too but despite having great chemistry there is no steamy scenes (almost). This storyline is mainly focused on the suspense rather than the romance but it's a great read. There are some good supporting charcters and the writing is so engaging that I couldn't put it down. There is also lots of drama and if you are a fan of 'Grey's Anatomy' then you are going to love Linda Bond's 'Flatline'.
I would love to read more books by the author in the future. I loved her writing style and the story was very good executed as well. Hope you all like it as much as I did.
Stay safe and happy reading.
I received an ARC in exchange of my honest review.
I love romance books but romantic suspense is my all time favourite genre. Add a medical drama in the mix and I will be a very happy girl.
This book follows star investigative reporter Rachel Wright and her ex boyfriend, ER Doctor Joshua Salvador (aka Dr McDreamy). Patients coming to Dr Salvador's ER are dying with mysterious symptoms. Specially people close to Josh. Unfortunately this books opens with a similar scene where we see both Rachel and Josh reunite after five years but under very unfortunate circumstances. Both of them lose not one but two very close friends and colleagues having the same mysterious symptoms. We instantly get to know Josh and Rachel's relationship ended in a tragic way but the story is focused on how they both had to work together in the time of crisis.
To be honest, the suspense part of the story was pretty good. I couldn't have guessed the culprit behind all these mysterious deaths. So I enjoyed that aspect. The story is kind of short but the timing is pretty great. The author successfully concluded the story within a matter of a few chapters without dragging anything out. There were no flashbacks but we get to know both Rachel and Josh's point of view and that helped to understand events better. The supporting characters are great too but despite having great chemistry there is no steamy scenes (almost). This storyline is mainly focused on the suspense rather than the romance but it's a great read. There are some good supporting charcters and the writing is so engaging that I couldn't put it down. There is also lots of drama and if you are a fan of 'Grey's Anatomy' then you are going to love Linda Bond's 'Flatline'.
I would love to read more books by the author in the future. I loved her writing style and the story was very good executed as well. Hope you all like it as much as I did.
Stay safe and happy reading.
May 26, 2020
' Flatline ' by Linda Bond is a medical mystery/thriller combined with a second chance romance.
The description of the story and cover tempted me to pick this book up on Netgalley for reading and reviewing. I enjoyed it as a light read with not much mental investment.
The story starts with Rachel Wright an acclaimed reporter taking her friend to the hospital ER where her brother Jim had died 5 years ago. With this sort of baggage in her head, she finds that her friend is also undergoing similar situation and dies. To top it all the doctor treating is Joshua Salvador, her Ex and also the one who had treated her brother Jim. Situations change and Rachel realises that Joshua has lost three patients in the last two days to similar complaints. They expect a viral epidemic and go on to investigate it together keeping their past aside. The results of the investigation are what makes the story a bit interesting.
The story though fast paced does seem fragmented and continuity at crucial points goes missing. The answers seem to come to them but sometimes the source doesn't seem clear. All events are linked to Joshua's past. The intermingling of past and present though interesting and lent a valid explanation didn't gel well with me. The rekindling of romance mixed with a medical thriller was a risk the author seemed to have taken but then somehow didn't translate well.
What I liked was that the author tried the combination genre. We never know what will succeed until we try it. So kudos to the author for that. It was an entertaining read.
If you love to start reading something from the medical thriller genre can start with this as it's not too heavy on the topic and romance angle keeps the entertainment quotient high.
Merged review:
' Flatline ' by Linda Bond is a medical mystery/thriller combined with a second chance romance.
The description of the story and cover tempted me to pick this book up on Netgalley for reading and reviewing. I enjoyed it as a light read with not much mental investment.
The story starts with Rachel Wright an acclaimed reporter taking her friend to the hospital ER where her brother Jim had died 5 years ago. With this sort of baggage in her head, she finds that her friend is also undergoing similar situation and dies. To top it all the doctor treating is Joshua Salvador, her Ex and also the one who had treated her brother Jim. Situations change and Rachel realises that Joshua has lost three patients in the last two days to similar complaints. They expect a viral epidemic and go on to investigate it together keeping their past aside. The results of the investigation are what makes the story a bit interesting.
The story though fast paced does seem fragmented and continuity at crucial points goes missing. The answers seem to come to them but sometimes the source doesn't seem clear. All events are linked to Joshua's past. The intermingling of past and present though interesting and lent a valid explanation didn't gel well with me. The rekindling of romance mixed with a medical thriller was a risk the author seemed to have taken but then somehow didn't translate well.
What I liked was that the author tried the combination genre. We never know what will succeed until we try it. So kudos to the author for that. It was an entertaining read.
If you love to start reading something from the medical thriller genre can start with this as it's not too heavy on the topic and romance angle keeps the entertainment quotient high.
I requested this book on Netgalley and I thank the publishers and author for providing me the copy. The vies expressed here are my own
The description of the story and cover tempted me to pick this book up on Netgalley for reading and reviewing. I enjoyed it as a light read with not much mental investment.
The story starts with Rachel Wright an acclaimed reporter taking her friend to the hospital ER where her brother Jim had died 5 years ago. With this sort of baggage in her head, she finds that her friend is also undergoing similar situation and dies. To top it all the doctor treating is Joshua Salvador, her Ex and also the one who had treated her brother Jim. Situations change and Rachel realises that Joshua has lost three patients in the last two days to similar complaints. They expect a viral epidemic and go on to investigate it together keeping their past aside. The results of the investigation are what makes the story a bit interesting.
The story though fast paced does seem fragmented and continuity at crucial points goes missing. The answers seem to come to them but sometimes the source doesn't seem clear. All events are linked to Joshua's past. The intermingling of past and present though interesting and lent a valid explanation didn't gel well with me. The rekindling of romance mixed with a medical thriller was a risk the author seemed to have taken but then somehow didn't translate well.
What I liked was that the author tried the combination genre. We never know what will succeed until we try it. So kudos to the author for that. It was an entertaining read.
If you love to start reading something from the medical thriller genre can start with this as it's not too heavy on the topic and romance angle keeps the entertainment quotient high.
Merged review:
' Flatline ' by Linda Bond is a medical mystery/thriller combined with a second chance romance.
The description of the story and cover tempted me to pick this book up on Netgalley for reading and reviewing. I enjoyed it as a light read with not much mental investment.
The story starts with Rachel Wright an acclaimed reporter taking her friend to the hospital ER where her brother Jim had died 5 years ago. With this sort of baggage in her head, she finds that her friend is also undergoing similar situation and dies. To top it all the doctor treating is Joshua Salvador, her Ex and also the one who had treated her brother Jim. Situations change and Rachel realises that Joshua has lost three patients in the last two days to similar complaints. They expect a viral epidemic and go on to investigate it together keeping their past aside. The results of the investigation are what makes the story a bit interesting.
The story though fast paced does seem fragmented and continuity at crucial points goes missing. The answers seem to come to them but sometimes the source doesn't seem clear. All events are linked to Joshua's past. The intermingling of past and present though interesting and lent a valid explanation didn't gel well with me. The rekindling of romance mixed with a medical thriller was a risk the author seemed to have taken but then somehow didn't translate well.
What I liked was that the author tried the combination genre. We never know what will succeed until we try it. So kudos to the author for that. It was an entertaining read.
If you love to start reading something from the medical thriller genre can start with this as it's not too heavy on the topic and romance angle keeps the entertainment quotient high.
I requested this book on Netgalley and I thank the publishers and author for providing me the copy. The vies expressed here are my own
June 12, 2020
Also Posted on For The Love of Fictional Worlds
Disclaimer: An eARC was provided via Inkslinger PR and the Author as part of the Blog Tour. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are therefore, my own.
I can’t remember when I actually read a medical thriller – So I have got to say that the opportunity to review Flatline by Linda Bond came just at the right moment!
Rachel, an investigative journalist, rushes into the ER when her friend and colleague ends up getting sick, sick enough that she ends up dying while she is being treated. A fact that takes her five years back to when she lost her brother suddenly.
And lo and behold, the same man who “failed” to save her brother is also the one standing over her friend’s body as well – Dr. Joshua – the man she was in love with, the man whom she doubted with a ferocity that led her to investigate his group of doctors and as a result, destroyed their relationship.
Now, the guardian of her niece; effectively a single mother, Rachel is a workaholic and her investigative instincts are tingling when she realises that her friend is not the only person to die in mysterious circumstances under Joshua’s care.
A second chance romance; Flatline is a fast paced medical thriller with short chapters that had me flowing through the book (I actually just finished it last night!). It is easy to empathize with Dr. Joshua; especially under the current circumstances of a pandemic – so it really close to home, the kind of pressure Health Professionals can come under and how it can seem like a thankless job at times! (If you want to read more, check out@sassyshaina’s review !)
This was a second chance romance; two highly ambitious professionals in love with each other; but circumstances and their own grief and perception leads to the destruction of a relationship neither of them has moved on from – I could have used a high level of angst in the plotline, it had the ripe foundation for it (pretty much the only time, I could have used the open communication between the protagonists to lead to a whole lot more emotional sustenance!) – but this was medical thriller that I was thoroughly entertained by for the time I was reading, so it a must recommend for those who really enjoy their thrillers with a unique sub – genre!
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May 9, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. All honest opinions are my own. I had never heard of this author before picking up this book but I was very intrigued by the synopsis. This is part of the Investigators series by Linda Bond, but all the books in that series are standalone novels. I love medical thrillers, whether in book or television form, so I was very excited to start reading this book. It was good, but it wasn't as good as I was hoping for. I felt a little let down by the end of the book. I felt like the romance aspects of this book overshadowed what could have been some amazing suspense moments...and that's not what I was hoping for in this book.
May 5, 2020
This is a timely thriller that was extra freaky to read in the time of pandemic. It’s a story about a mysterious virus striking a hospital, and a doctor and investigative reporter who used to be in love, and who are determined to find the cause. The author is good at maintaining a fast pace throughout and both lead characters are very likable.
I would say the first half of this book is more of a straightforward romance — which is perfectly well written but just not my favorite genre. But about halfway through the pandemic thriller kicks into gear and I got drawn into the plot. The medical theory and details of the killings are interesting and well-researched and I would definitely not have guessed whodunit or why.
Ultimately though, I think for me this was a “judging a book by its cover” situation (my fault - we all know what they say...) - because from the cover and the blurb I was expecting a Robin Cook/Michael Palmer type medical thriller and really this is more of a romance/medical drama. I think this book will appeal very much to readers who like a more romance to their thrillers, but if you’re a black-hearted reader like me who just wanted to read about a straight up vicious serial killer, this may not completely float your boat..
I’d give this 3.5 stars for my own self, but if you like reading about hot doctors who want to save each of their patients (and really, I don’t know why I don’t, especially right now!), particularly the woman they love, you’ll definitely enjoy this fast moving and well-plotted book.
Thanks so much to Entangled, NetGalley and the author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review!
I would say the first half of this book is more of a straightforward romance — which is perfectly well written but just not my favorite genre. But about halfway through the pandemic thriller kicks into gear and I got drawn into the plot. The medical theory and details of the killings are interesting and well-researched and I would definitely not have guessed whodunit or why.
Ultimately though, I think for me this was a “judging a book by its cover” situation (my fault - we all know what they say...) - because from the cover and the blurb I was expecting a Robin Cook/Michael Palmer type medical thriller and really this is more of a romance/medical drama. I think this book will appeal very much to readers who like a more romance to their thrillers, but if you’re a black-hearted reader like me who just wanted to read about a straight up vicious serial killer, this may not completely float your boat..
I’d give this 3.5 stars for my own self, but if you like reading about hot doctors who want to save each of their patients (and really, I don’t know why I don’t, especially right now!), particularly the woman they love, you’ll definitely enjoy this fast moving and well-plotted book.
Thanks so much to Entangled, NetGalley and the author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review!
May 17, 2020
A quick, fast paced romantic thriller:
This book got my heart rate up with all of the adrenaline inducing, fast paced action! It was emotionally gripping and I was holding onto the edge of my seat as I frantically tore through the pages. I loved how the mystery and suspense drew me in from the start and it kept me guessing with all of the twists and turns.
Joshua and Rachel share a painful past and they no longer trust each other. However when tragedy strikes they draw together to investigate and in the process reignite the flame that once burned brightly between them. I was disappointed though with how Rachel's niece was portrayed. We were never told how old she was and she never got to speak for herself.
Some of the medical aspects were also unrealistic, as were all the personal details an ER doctor was supposed to have known about a young boy he'd treated 5 years prior. However if you ignore these factors it was still a thrilling read. I would have loved an epilogue though as it seemed to end rather abruptly without full resolution.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This book got my heart rate up with all of the adrenaline inducing, fast paced action! It was emotionally gripping and I was holding onto the edge of my seat as I frantically tore through the pages. I loved how the mystery and suspense drew me in from the start and it kept me guessing with all of the twists and turns.
Joshua and Rachel share a painful past and they no longer trust each other. However when tragedy strikes they draw together to investigate and in the process reignite the flame that once burned brightly between them. I was disappointed though with how Rachel's niece was portrayed. We were never told how old she was and she never got to speak for herself.
Some of the medical aspects were also unrealistic, as were all the personal details an ER doctor was supposed to have known about a young boy he'd treated 5 years prior. However if you ignore these factors it was still a thrilling read. I would have loved an epilogue though as it seemed to end rather abruptly without full resolution.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
May 3, 2020
I love medical thrillers and this book did not disappoint. Once I started, I didn't stop until I finished. It had medical mysteries, mostly took place in the hospital (which I loved) and also had some romance vibes. This is my first book by the author, but I can't wait to read her other standalone books in this series.
Thank you to.Netgalley, Entangled Publishing and to the author, Linda Bond for this.ARC in exchange for.a honest review
#flatline #netgalley
Thank you to.Netgalley, Entangled Publishing and to the author, Linda Bond for this.ARC in exchange for.a honest review
#flatline #netgalley
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