Secret is in the Bones

Paynes Creek #3

by Heather Sunseri

She needed peace, not murder. He wanted love but found danger. Will a talented pair of investigators live to see their romance bloom?

Forensic photographer Faith Day can’t forget her tortured past. And returning to her hometown to help care for her nephew means rebuilding all she’s lost. But her brave plans shatter when her best friend is suspected of her own husband’s brutal slaying…

FBI Special Agent Luke Justice never rests until the culprits are caught. But when a violent case touches the life of the woman he loves, he can’t help but make it personal. And with a second investigation into a vicious prison gang diverting all his attention, he fears he’ll struggle to protect her from the killer’s disturbing taunts.

Discovering an ominous photo of herself at the crime scene, Faith is terrified the murderer is someone she knows. And when Luke uncovers a sinister connection to Faith, he suspects they’re all being lured into a lethal trap.

Can Luke and Faith stop the slaughter before they join the body count?

Secret is in the Bones is the beguiling third tale in the Paynes Creek Thriller romantic suspense series. If you like deadly twists, devious psychopaths, and against-all-odds chemistry, then you’ll adore Heather Sunseri’s fast-paced story.

Genres: Thriller, Mystery

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 17, 2021

About the author

Heather Sunseri was raised on a tiny farm in the smallest of towns in thoroughbred horse country near Lexington, Kentucky. After high school, she attended Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, and later graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in accounting. Always torn between a passion for fantasy and a mind for the rational, it only made sense to combine her career in accounting with a novel-writing dream.

Heather now lives in a different small town on the other side of Lexington with her two children, and her husband, Mike, the biggest Oregon Duck fan in the universe. When she’s not writing or working as a CPA, she spends her time tormenting her daughter’s cat, Olivia, and loving on her son’s Golden Retriever, Jenny. MINDSPEAK is her first published novel.

Reviews

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thrilling read from start to finish with tons of twists and murder. There is a madman stalking Faith but its not the one she thinks it is.

Faith Day had a horrific childhood and as an adult she found out that those remaining family members were guilty of horrible cover ups and crimes. These trauma's made her walk away from her budding relationship with FBI Agent Luke Justice.

When her best friend's husband is murdered and she is accused of it Faith comes out of hiding to help. Luke is there by her side even though she still not through with pushing him away but this killer is cunning and she will need all the help (and love) she can get to survive.

Reading the previous books in the series would certainly help as the current murders are tied to her past. The author does revisit so even if you haven't you aren't at a total loss. I highly recommend this series for suspense lovers.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind blown. There are so many layers of tangled secrets in this series, and they all seem to come to a head in this story. In fact, I’m not even sure what I can say about this book that won’t give them all away. I felt the way I imagine an addict does as I desperately flipped pages looking for my next hit, anxiously trying to ferret out the hidden clues that would break the whole thing wide open. The one thing I know for certain is that while I adore where this book leaves Faith and Luke, I’m nowhere near ready to let go of these characters just yet.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.

[Aleta Meeker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather Sunseri has done it again! A real page-turner. Faith and Luke have been through a lot since they first met. Follow the next chapter in their lives. Surprises and suspense will keep you reading! Just when you think you figured it out, think again! Love is stronger than psychopathy! The end will leave you wanting more! Happy reading, y'all!

[Uma · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's not often I find myself disassociated from the main character. I tried telling myself that I would eventually like Faith Day, but until the end, I never could. I can never understand someone who keeps wanting to run away from the people who love and care for them. And though she said she was sorry for what she did to Ethan, I just couldn't find any remorse in it. Yes, he hurt her 13 years ago. Something she will never ever be able to forget. I can't blame her for feeling that way towards Ethan. But she should have let him pay for that crime instead of letting him take the fall for a bigger crime and then later on blaming her uncle, the chief of police and her brother for whatever happened to Ethan.

I could have done without the constant repetition of Faith having hyperthymesia - throughout the book! Anyone who has read Book 1 would already be familiar with her condition. And even if they didn't, they would know it immediately after starting with this book.

I expected to see some reaction from Penelope after knowing that her husband was killed because of Faith. That storyline didn't even come up. I know I could never forgive someone who inadvertently caused the death of a loved one. Not for several years, I suppose.

I did not love the story but I do not hate it. It was just okay for me.

[NotTheTea · Rating 2 out of 5]

🔪📸Thank God they added Luke's pov.
🔪📸Penelope and faith didn't seem that close in previous book.
🔪📸I see so many fault at charging Penelope for the murder....
🔪📸There was a word called unknowingly. How do you just allow someone to take a picture if you don't even know they're taking one?
🔪📸Huh in first book there wasn't much support from police for faith.
🔪📸I don't know why they mention finch as a psychopath or a horrible person. He didn't even kill intentionally. Yes he covered it up but do you think Ethan would have been punished if it didn't happen? In a way she still love Ethan aka her rapist, their "connection" still there. I mean she was constantly apologizing whenever she hurt him with her words which she doesn't even do with Luke! So why this much abhorrent feeling toward finch whose only intention was to protect his sister? She didn't even visit them.
🔪📸You're telling me ethan got over his obsession just like that?
🔪📸I would like to know a reason why she's pushing Luke away. She vaguely stated that she doesn't deserve happiness but nothing definitive. I mean tell me why? Give me a reason even if it's in your head. You can't be meanie without a reason.
🔪📸Ok apparently Ethan is a saint now. Got it.
🔪📸If you wanna add bunch of characters in the story maybe don't give them similar names like Myra/Marla, Cain/Crain, McCracken/McQueen.
🔪📸She was so angry that Marla showed Oliver and Leah's picture on her news and risked them. So why didn't she do anything about it? It's like she forgot the topic altogether after that outburst. So of course when the bad guy got to them I was pissed.
🔪📸Any redemption of Ethan won't work on me. Maybe I would have considered if they added his pov. They're trying too hard.
🔪📸Well thank God it ended.

[John A. Sillasen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are You Really Paranoid I'd Someone is Out To Get You? Have a feeling you're being followed?

Well, that's what's happening to Faith Day. She escaped having her childhood home burn down around here. She has the burn scars to prove it. Family and the Chief of Police are in prison because of that. Her half brother raped her at 16 when he was 17 and her testimony had him do prison time for a crime he didn't commit. Later he's out and in the same time. Is he stalking her? The bonfires outside her Airstream travel trailer suggest it. So Faith leaves town. Colorado, Florida. Still she has this feeling Ethan is following her still. She sets her trailer up in a camp site just 2 hours from Paynes Creek, home but at a distance when she learns her best friends husband is murdered and her friend is their only suspect. The killer, having lost track of Faith after she left Colorado knew the murder of her best friend, well she escaped but he got her husband at least, would bring her back home to Paynes Creek. Little did he know she was only 2 hours away. He could have stalked and tormented her right where she was if only he had known. Well, at least he got to kill somebody... Yes, your definitely going to want to read this 4th novel in the Paynes Creek Thriller Series. You could read it as a standalone story but its definitely more thrilling to read them all!

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Faith and Luke!

You know you have those books that once you finish you just kinda sit there and reflect on the journey that you've been on? Well "Secret is in the Bones" is one of those books. I'll admit, I can't get enough of Faith and Luke, and would willingly read more. The dynamic between all the characters is, I think, what makes Faith and Luke's story so good. Not just Faith and Luke but all the characters. Even the sadistic, evil killers do their part to make this such a good book. Yes, I know, that sounds really bad, who says that killers are doing their job? Don't judge, they're from the mind of an amazing author, blame her. There were definitely waterworks in this one. My heart absolutely broke for Ethan and what he had suffered, not saying that what he done to Faith at seventeen wasn't horrible, but still my heart broke for him. He had tried to make amends and in the end I guess he did. My heart also broke for Faith and all the things she had suffered in her life and would continue to suffer. Since this author is fairly new to me, I'm hoping that she has more in store for Luke, Faith and Paynes Creek, Kentucky.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in the Paynes Creek Thriller series, Secret is in the Bones carries on what was happening at the end of the first book (I somehow missed reading the second book and that was not a problem reading this one). As is typical of books by this author, I literally could not put it down. I kept staying up until midnight or later (VERY unusual for me) and had to force myself to put my Kindle down and go to sleep. The action is pretty much non-stop and the romance between Faith and Luke is just perfect. The occasional chapter from the point of view of the killer/stalker/all around bad guy really added to the reading experience. I got to know more than the characters! I often wasn’t sure where things were going and even though I knew who the bad guy was I had no idea where he fit into everything, or why he was obsessed with Faith, until nearly the very end. Truly a fabulous book. I recommend it to adults who enjoy thrillers, but definitely read the first book in the series or you will be very confused reading this one (though obviously the second book isn’t required before this one).

[Tenise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bad things are happening in Paynes Creek and half the town seems to be blaming one person. But things aren't always as they seem and they are pointing fingers in the wrong direction.

Luke has felt something for Faith since the first time he laid eyes on her. But will those feelings ever be reciprocated?

Faith left town a year ago but something horrible has brought her back to Paynes Creek and to Luke. Will Faith give Luke a chance this time? Or will she leave and never look back?

Just like with all of the other books in this series, the author kept me guessing. Secret is in the Bones was a fast paced, page turner that had me engaged from the very first page. It is a love story wrapped in a murder mystery and I loved every minute of it.This is book 3 in the series and it's very important you start with book 1, Death is in the Details, or you will not understand what is going on in this book.

[Krysti Kois · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great thriller by Heather Sunseri. Paynes Creek is a lovely, idyllic little town in Kentucky that I would love to live in. Except for, you know, the murders. Faith Day left Paynes Creek after a whole mess involving most of her immediate family either being dead or in jail. Unfortunately, one more murder brings her back. The only up side? Reuniting with sexy as sin Luke Justice; 6’2”, green eyed, totally in love with Faith, FBI agent.
I loved how it wasn’t just a insta love story with a disaster in the background. Both parts were seamlessly woven together giving us a mystery to solve and a romance to watch. With this being the third book that takes place at Paynes Creek, we also see more of Cooper Adams and Lily Thomas as well as Faith’s aunt Leah and the rest of Paynes Creek’s residents.
There is some sex, though not graphically. This has a happy ending and no cliffhanger.

[Judi Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Faith Day has been on the road with the camper trailer. She doesn't stay any where too long as she is still trying to forget her town and what happened there when she left. Now she needs to return home, as her best friend, has been accused of murder and she needs to find out what happened. Her friend is in the hospital and accused of killing her husband, but Faith knows she couldn't have done this.

FBI Special Agent Luke Justice is still keeping up with Faith and has always kept track of her when she was traveling around the country. He just needs her to come home and come back to him. But, now, people that are close to Faith are being killed in her hometown and she feels like someone is watching her all the time. Will Faith and Luke have their chance to be together or will a killer who has been stalking Faith end their dreams.

[Kari Shick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the latest book in the Paynes Creek Thriller series. The author has been slowly building up to things that come to a head in this story. We gain insight into more of our favorite characters and continue to see some of the main characters from previous stories. This book has many things that I enjoy - developed characters (good people with flaws - so they are not "perfect" - but are realistic), well described setting (small town in Kentucky), and a story with multiple layers that make allow for unpredictable twists and turns. This book can be read without reading the previous books in the series, because adequate background is provided - however I recommend reading the entire series! Thank you to Heather Sunseri for another awesome story!

[Sioms · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an arc in exchange for an honest review*

When I started reading this book, I was so lost. I guess I was expecting to feel that “can be read as a standalone” vibe in the book. But what I didn’t realize was that I was the one with problem, not the book. I was so lost because I trying to figuring out what happened in the first two books. *facepalm* So I took a step back, rid my mind of my questions on the first two books and read on. I was finally able to enjoy the book.

As most Heather Sunseri books I’ve read, this book had me on the edge of my seat. The suspense in finding the reason behind everything that’s going on in the story really got me reading page after page. I may have read this book longer than usual, but every time I have the book down, all I can think about was when I’ll be able to continue my reading. This turned out to be one great read for me.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather Sunseri is a master of the many layered story that both gives you a satisfying ending and leaves you dying for more. We're back with familiar characters from the fist two books of the series, and they are like connecting with old friends. I found this one so gripping that I kept reading long after I should have gone to bed. The places in this book are described so vividly that you often feel like you're there in the story. Can't wait for more!
*** I am providing a non compensated review based off of an ARC of the book from the author***

[Katie Wells · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not gonna lie. I didn’t love this book as much as the others in the Paynes Creek series so far. While I loved getting another story of Faith and Luke... I would have liked even more thrill and suspense. For me, the story seemed predictable at times, even though I was still enjoying my time with the characters and their development. Heather Sunseri still provided an entertaining installment of this series even though it wasn’t my personal favorite of her books so far. I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Erin Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a sucker for a good murder mystery thriller. But since I read so many, I’m usually pretty good at guessing the killer and predicting the plot line of that story - it doesn’t make it any less enjoyable for me to read, but it does make plot lines/twists that I don’t see coming so much better!

There are so many twists and turns in this book that I could not have predicted. I could not put the book down. The way the tiniest details are connected and come back to throughout the story line kept me turning the page because I had to know what happened next.

Amazing book!

[Amber Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book wraps up Faith and Lukes story which had been touched on in the previous two books. It's a scary good conclusion with a few twists, no cliffhangers, and a great did he or didn't he that you just have to read to find out. I love that there is this much suspense with a bit of heat and this proves why Heather has been my favorite author for a long time now.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the publisher.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this addition to Faith and Luke's story. As I stated in my review for book one, Faith is broken. At times that makes her a little unlikable but real. I enjoyed watching her grow in this book even though there were still times I wanted to yell at her. Luke, ahhhhh, I love him even more after reading this. It was also fun to see Lil and Coop. Overall, it was a great read and I'd reccomend the whole series.

[Heather Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even if you haven't read any of the other books set in Paynes Creek, you shouldn't have a problem picking this one up. (But if you haven't read the others, what are you waiting for?)
Faith Day was lured back to her hometown where trouble always seems to be attached to her. She thinks Luke, an FBI agent, shouldn't be with her because of this. But Luke is determined to not only figure out who is behind everything, but to be with Faith despite her past, present, and whatever the future may bring.

[Kaysi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entire series, Payne's Creek Thrillers, is captivating. I'm constantly left wanting more and more. I hope Heather continues to add more installments into her Payne's Creek world; the world needs more Payne's Creek!

Another fabulous book with the perfect balance of mystery, horror, and romance. Please give us more Faith and Luke!

[DropDeadAmber · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ending was kinda meh. I feel like it should have been more, but the book was still good. I also feel like Ethan deserved better.

I also didn’t like getting the killers perspective bc then I know who did it and I couldn’t guess. But all the other crazy details that you figure out made up for it.

[Gina Cihacz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put it down

Great book. I read in one night as I could not put it down. Suspense, a delayed chance at romance, and a vulnerable but extremely strong woman lead, you can't get better than that. This is a must read series.

[Mrs.J.C.Mooney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth Reading

As always Heather Sunseri delivers a polished well written thriller. Good plot and great characters. All in all a very good read.

[LeAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Getting better

This series got better with each book. The writing improved and the twists and clues got far more subtle. I enjoyed reading them.

[Melissa Dallman · Rating 5 out of 5]

great mystery superb story and ending can't wait to read more books

[Adrienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great third book in this series. Loved it.

[Samantha Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Read Series.
Faith Day brings you through so much.
Luke is to die for.
Read it.

[Valerie Stine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the whole series!

[Nancy Sturm · Rating 3 out of 5]

It kept my attention to the end and I enjoyed the series.

[Kerston Latchaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was good, and I did enjoy the story. I just feel like a lot of the confrontation could’ve been handled differently if Faith grew a back bone instead of getting upset and crying about it.