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Real Virtue
In a virtual reality game where she can fly, someone is aiming to take her down.
Mel Mesini is a New York City restaurateur and an avid virtual reality world traveler. She's risen above her misfit life and now bears a striking resemblance to her glamorous gaming avatar. But her successful life-both online and in reality-takes a swerve the night her father is seriously injured in a hit-and-run. Mel is careened back to her judgmental hometown, where being the daughter of the town's crazy lady had made her an outcast. To make matters worse, Officer Jeremy Stiles, the man whose harsh, rejecting words had cut her the deepest, is heading the investigation.
Jeremy knows he hurt Mel and attempts to make amends by finding her father's assailant. When he realizes she's the actual target, his plan for reconciliation turns to one of protection-whether she wants his help or not. What he wants are answers, especially about this online game she plays. Is it a harmless pastime as she says? Or is she using it to cover something up? As a faceless predator destroys the things that matter to her, Jeremy knows he's running out of time before she loses the one thing that matters most-her real life.
Mel Mesini is a New York City restaurateur and an avid virtual reality world traveler. She's risen above her misfit life and now bears a striking resemblance to her glamorous gaming avatar. But her successful life-both online and in reality-takes a swerve the night her father is seriously injured in a hit-and-run. Mel is careened back to her judgmental hometown, where being the daughter of the town's crazy lady had made her an outcast. To make matters worse, Officer Jeremy Stiles, the man whose harsh, rejecting words had cut her the deepest, is heading the investigation.
Jeremy knows he hurt Mel and attempts to make amends by finding her father's assailant. When he realizes she's the actual target, his plan for reconciliation turns to one of protection-whether she wants his help or not. What he wants are answers, especially about this online game she plays. Is it a harmless pastime as she says? Or is she using it to cover something up? As a faceless predator destroys the things that matter to her, Jeremy knows he's running out of time before she loses the one thing that matters most-her real life.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2012
108 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Katy Lee
101 books193 followersBest-selling and award-winning author Katy Lee has written over thirty novels, filled with romance, suspense, and inspiration. She lives in the rugged beauty of the Utah mountains where she is also a special education teacher at a school for international students. Katy loves to knit warm wooly things while plotting her next suspense story. Keep up with Katy at KatyLeeBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 11, 2012
Real Virtue is an engrossing story of a Mel, young woman who flees her past to recreate herself in a whole new image. The world she has made for herself—and thinks she controls—begins to unravel when her father is injured in a hit-and-run accident and Mel returns to the home she left many years before. Mel is forced to confront reality and fantasy on many levels: her own involvement with a video game, the mystery surrounding the attempts on her life, her mother’s schizophrenia, and the qualities of the man who once rejected her and is now trying to save her. This thriller kept me guessing until the end and was satisfying on many levels. The progression of Mel’s understanding of the relationship she once fled from, contrasted with the world she created for herself was as intriguing as the stalker-mystery parts of the book. Add to that the masterful way spiritual truths are woven through the story: Real Virtue is a great read.
December 4, 2013
Katy Lee’s characterizations are so compelling that I felt as though I was right there. The insights into the schizophrenic mind and the emotions of their loved ones were particularly gripping. The spiritual elements of this story, from the concepts of virtue to the dangers of virtual living (in all its layers of meaning), unfold in a completely organic way that will leave the reader pondering them long afterward. One hundred percent romance. One hundred percent suspense. This book is a keeper.
August 16, 2014
"Real Virtue" is a modern day plot, with people meeting on gaming sites and having hidden intentions.
Read full review in February 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in February 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
February 6, 2013
The book deals with successful restaurant owner Mel having to go back home to deal with a family crisis. She left her small home town 8 years ago because of the rejection and ridicule she received from the townspeople due to her schizophrenic mother. Mel made her self completely over, almost unrecognizable, and turned herself into the virtual reality character she is obsessed with. She now is home to take care of her mother while her father is in a coma from a hit and run accident. Once home, she gets assistance from her teen crush Jeremy who once harshly rejected her, but is now a police officer with an agenda of his own. Together they find out that Mel is the real target of a violent stalker who is sabotaging everything she values, be it her restaurant, her game, or her hard earned looks. So when I entered the giveaway for this book on goodreads, I had no idea that this book dealt so heavily with religion and God. I was under the impression that the title Real Virtue was so named due to the main characters obsession with a virtual reality game, not with keeping your virtue as a religious belief. That being said, the mystery aspect of the book was really well done and I had no idea who was behind the murderous misdeeds. The character of Mel I found to be very difficult to connect to because she basically lived in her own worlds where she saw negativity in every situation, even the most innocent. Jeremy on the other hand took everything so personally, as if he failed, and would preach about God and religion. I am not a terribly religious person so it was a little overwhelming to hear all of his speeches about his path and purpose. It was a little disappointing at Mel's decisions as well, not very girl power, but maybe the idea was greater good instead. Overall it was not a bad book, and they mystery was a surprise, but I just was not expecting what the books subject matter was really about. I thank the author for sending me a copy of her book as well as the kind words she wrote inside.
June 12, 2012
Katy Lee succeeds wonderfully in covering several deep topics in one amazing novel.
The spiritual awakening of the protagonist, Mel, is masterfully intertwined with her gaming addiction, physical danger, romantic interest, and emotional upheaval. The plot thickens as Mel receives news that her father has been seriously injured in a hit-and-run incident, leaving her schizophrenic mother vulnerably alone. Mel has to face her past love as well as the life she ran away from, and comes to terms with the fact that her virtual life has shifted her real life out of focus significantly.
REAL VIRTUE is such a relevant read, reinforcing the need for balance and boundaries in the world of gaming. The pull of family, friendship and faith takes center stage, and the whole story is wrapped up in a tender romance- a fascinating, thoroughly enjoyable read I can whole-heartedly recommend.
The spiritual awakening of the protagonist, Mel, is masterfully intertwined with her gaming addiction, physical danger, romantic interest, and emotional upheaval. The plot thickens as Mel receives news that her father has been seriously injured in a hit-and-run incident, leaving her schizophrenic mother vulnerably alone. Mel has to face her past love as well as the life she ran away from, and comes to terms with the fact that her virtual life has shifted her real life out of focus significantly.
REAL VIRTUE is such a relevant read, reinforcing the need for balance and boundaries in the world of gaming. The pull of family, friendship and faith takes center stage, and the whole story is wrapped up in a tender romance- a fascinating, thoroughly enjoyable read I can whole-heartedly recommend.
April 8, 2014
I really liked this book. It took me a while to finish it because I don't have a lot of time to read paper books -- most of my books are ebooks, so I can "read" (i.e. listen to them being read by my phone) in the car, read them while I'm waiting for something, etc. I got about 2/3 the way through, then the last third or so, I couldn't put the book down, and kept reading till about 3 am. It had a surprise ending (not 6th sense type surprise, but a bit of a twist) that I didn't figure out myself (ok, I didn't figure out 6th sense either). I like the Christian side of this, and it's nice to be able to read a good clean wholesome book.
I have known Katy for a while (I used to work with her husband, and all of us go to the same church). I've never read a book that I know the author, so this was a double treat.
I have known Katy for a while (I used to work with her husband, and all of us go to the same church). I've never read a book that I know the author, so this was a double treat.
August 5, 2012
I was drawn into this story from the opening page and I loved the unusual story premise. Mel creates an avatar in her virtual world that crosses over into her real life in a very scary way.
I liked how Mel’s relationship with her mentally ill mother evolved during the story. We gain an insight into the very real difficulties facing people who struggle with mental illness and how their illness impacts their loved ones.
I enjoyed the developing romance between childhood friends Mel and Jeremy as the stakes are raised and Mel’s life is in danger. The twists and turns in this story will keep you guessing until the end. I recommend Real Virtue to those looking for an exciting romantic suspense story that deals with the issue of mental illness in a realistic manner.
I liked how Mel’s relationship with her mentally ill mother evolved during the story. We gain an insight into the very real difficulties facing people who struggle with mental illness and how their illness impacts their loved ones.
I enjoyed the developing romance between childhood friends Mel and Jeremy as the stakes are raised and Mel’s life is in danger. The twists and turns in this story will keep you guessing until the end. I recommend Real Virtue to those looking for an exciting romantic suspense story that deals with the issue of mental illness in a realistic manner.
February 18, 2016
I am not a big fan of love stories but add some suspense and real life issues and I'm in. This is the first book I have read by this author and must say I was truly impressed. This was an easy read but very indepth. The author covered so many different subjects and brought them all together beautifully. I loved Jeremy's intimate relationship with Christ and how he would not compromise that for anyone even someone he loved. Mel's journey was an enjoyable read. She had so many issues in her life to overcome but they were real life issues that we face every day. Some of them we don't even see in ourselves. I could go on and on about the content in this book but that would be too involved. A great read and one I highly recommend.
January 30, 2013
Real Virtue is a wonderful read. Katy Lee instantly draws you in by creating a likeable heroine who is caught up in a virtual world that borders on obsession. Since I love stories about heroines returning to their hometowns, I was intrigued by Mel's stormy past and her fractured relationship with her mother. The author skillfully painted a portrait of a daughter who has had to deal with her mother's mental illness. The danger elements are exciting, as is the mystery that heightens throughout the novel. The romance between Mel and Jeremy is beautiful, and I greatly enjoyed Mel's spiritual and emotional journey.
April 22, 2012
I loved this debut novel by Katy Lee. As someone who's spent many hours playing The Sims, I could relate to getting lost in a virtual world over the real one. I also enjoyed the sizzle between the heroine Mel and Jeremy. If you're a fan of romantic suspense - don't miss this book!
February 3, 2013
This was a really good book. I loved the mystery behind everything but also the correlation between the virtual world and the real world. The characters were so well written you remember them even after you've finished the book.
August 24, 2012
"This book is a great read. It kept me on the edge of my seat and turning those pages. It made me laugh and cry. I loved it. 5 stars and a standing ovation to author, Katy Lee on her debut novel."
Want to read
October 11, 2012Though I'm not a gamer it didn't matter with this story or author. She had me right in the middle of the action. I love a story that keeps me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
April 21, 2013
Well written, excellent story.
July 10, 2013
Slam dunk debut novel by this inspirational author. Can't recommend it highly enough.
October 7, 2013
Excellent story and multiple twists make this debut novel one to remember.
January 9, 2025
I loved everything about this book.
The many interwoven stories, the mystery, the love story and the realness of it. Most of all I loved how Jeremy cared for and truly loved Mel. The way he strove to learn about her mother’s disease just to better understand her and her family was amazing. Then the end … I couldn’t write a better ending with how he erased her fear and trauma from the house and events there.
The author skillfully and artfully relayed care, healing, hurt, betrayal, affection, and love in the telling of the entire story.
And the way she told of Christ’s love for us as the two of them explored the forest! It was poetic and beautiful.
A magical story with many truths shared in a loving way. I’m so glad I chose this story.
The many interwoven stories, the mystery, the love story and the realness of it. Most of all I loved how Jeremy cared for and truly loved Mel. The way he strove to learn about her mother’s disease just to better understand her and her family was amazing. Then the end … I couldn’t write a better ending with how he erased her fear and trauma from the house and events there.
The author skillfully and artfully relayed care, healing, hurt, betrayal, affection, and love in the telling of the entire story.
And the way she told of Christ’s love for us as the two of them explored the forest! It was poetic and beautiful.
A magical story with many truths shared in a loving way. I’m so glad I chose this story.
April 17, 2022
The greastest of all is Love
Mel is so vain and mean for the first half of the book that ou may become discussed with her but please stay strong and continue for the last half. You will be pleased and satisfied that you did. The story unvailed mental problems, addiction, other than drugs and alcohol, and the power of faith and love.
The author was kind enough to write a narrative free of violence, foul language and sexual overtones. Katy Lee was able to include the power of devine guidance and spiritual inspiration in a genuine testimonial life of Jeremy in her written story.
Great characters. I hope you will enjoy the tale
Mel is so vain and mean for the first half of the book that ou may become discussed with her but please stay strong and continue for the last half. You will be pleased and satisfied that you did. The story unvailed mental problems, addiction, other than drugs and alcohol, and the power of faith and love.
The author was kind enough to write a narrative free of violence, foul language and sexual overtones. Katy Lee was able to include the power of devine guidance and spiritual inspiration in a genuine testimonial life of Jeremy in her written story.
Great characters. I hope you will enjoy the tale
September 29, 2025
Wow!!! Wonderful!
Riveting. Hard to put down, though I had to take breaks when I felt I could not handle more, for a time.
Such a touching and loving story, filled with horror at times. I loved the way God's Word was quoted where it fit seamlessly.
I am thrilled that I finally found the time to enjoy this story of flawed people chasing a dream and finding just where they left it. A new perspective made it all word with God as an anchor. Loved loved the read.
Only one typo and it was easy to correct when I reread the sentence. Again, delightfully wonderful.
Riveting. Hard to put down, though I had to take breaks when I felt I could not handle more, for a time.
Such a touching and loving story, filled with horror at times. I loved the way God's Word was quoted where it fit seamlessly.
I am thrilled that I finally found the time to enjoy this story of flawed people chasing a dream and finding just where they left it. A new perspective made it all word with God as an anchor. Loved loved the read.
Only one typo and it was easy to correct when I reread the sentence. Again, delightfully wonderful.
December 22, 2021
Unputdownable
As a senior citizen approaching 80, I had trouble relating to the internet game at the start of the book, but once I got into the storyline, I loved it! I even stayed up until 3:15 one night because I just couldn't put it down. If you're looking for a great thriller that includes a beautiful love story, this is the book for you.
As a senior citizen approaching 80, I had trouble relating to the internet game at the start of the book, but once I got into the storyline, I loved it! I even stayed up until 3:15 one night because I just couldn't put it down. If you're looking for a great thriller that includes a beautiful love story, this is the book for you.
September 28, 2022
While the romance seemed over-dramatized, and the suspense/crime elements didn’t really make sense to me (maybe they weren’t supposed to?) I appreciated the author’s honest, compassionate treatment of mental illness and addiction.
All in all, a decent story that had the potential to be so much better.
All in all, a decent story that had the potential to be so much better.
January 1, 2022
A surprise hit to the feels
As I began this book I was concerned, I wasn't sure I liked it. Then boom! The pieces start falling into place. AMAZING! FOR ANYONE WHO HAS DELT WITH REJECTION OR A FAMILY MEMBER WITH MENTAL ILLNESS, a MUST read.
As I began this book I was concerned, I wasn't sure I liked it. Then boom! The pieces start falling into place. AMAZING! FOR ANYONE WHO HAS DELT WITH REJECTION OR A FAMILY MEMBER WITH MENTAL ILLNESS, a MUST read.
January 23, 2022
wow
Just wow. This book is deep. Very well written with many issues we face on a daily basis like addiction, fear, anxiety and they worry that we aren’t good enough. Truly one of the best novels I’ve read in a long time. Not your typical romance. A must read.
Just wow. This book is deep. Very well written with many issues we face on a daily basis like addiction, fear, anxiety and they worry that we aren’t good enough. Truly one of the best novels I’ve read in a long time. Not your typical romance. A must read.
October 1, 2022
Absolutely Riveting
This book was absolutely riveting. It kept you thinking and on the edge of your seat while also pointing you to God and how much He loves us and how we can overcome anything with His help. Excellent book.
This book was absolutely riveting. It kept you thinking and on the edge of your seat while also pointing you to God and how much He loves us and how we can overcome anything with His help. Excellent book.
December 22, 2022
This is my first from this author and I adored this Christian, second chance romantic suspense. It was thrill after thrill as the web was woven. I enjoyed the virtual reality side story. Very interesting.
March 30, 2023
This book was so good, it was a very unique and different story dealing with all different issues a person can experience during their life. I don't know how to describe it without doing it justice. I would highly recommend it
August 17, 2024
Suspense and Reconciliation
My first read by Katy Lee and oh what a story. Well thought out from beginning to end with your attention and excitement ready for what comes next. Twist and turns often lead you the wrong way but in the end…
My first read by Katy Lee and oh what a story. Well thought out from beginning to end with your attention and excitement ready for what comes next. Twist and turns often lead you the wrong way but in the end…
January 20, 2022
Nice
I enjoyed reading this story. It had
a few graphic parts, but I really liked the ending. Might read another one by this author.
I enjoyed reading this story. It had
a few graphic parts, but I really liked the ending. Might read another one by this author.
April 19, 2022
Christian book
This is a very good Christian book. I am careful of what I read and this book was perfect for me.
This is a very good Christian book. I am careful of what I read and this book was perfect for me.
May 23, 2022
Quite different
This book deals with several issues—schizophrenia, addiction and insecurity. It demonstrates how the love of Christ will sustain you. I recommend this book.
This book deals with several issues—schizophrenia, addiction and insecurity. It demonstrates how the love of Christ will sustain you. I recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews