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Identity
A new thriller about one man's ice-cold malice, and one woman's fight to reclaim her life.
Former Army brat Morgan Albright has finally planted roots in a friendly neighborhood near Baltimore. Her friend and roommate Nina helps her make the mortgage payments, as does Morgan's job as a bartender. But after she and Nina host their first dinner party—attended by Luke, the flirtatious IT guy who'd been chatting her up at the bar—her carefully built world is shattered. The back door glass is broken, cash and jewelry are missing, her car is gone, and Nina lies dead on the floor.
Soon, a horrific truth emerges: It was Morgan who let the monster in. "Luke” is actually a cold-hearted con artist named Gavin who targets a particular type of woman, steals her assets and identity, and then commits his ultimate goal: murder.
What the FBI tells Morgan is beyond chilling. Nina wasn't his type. Morgan is. Nina was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. And Morgan's nightmare is just beginning. Soon she has no choice but to flee to her mother's home in Vermont. While she struggles to build something new, she meets another man, Miles Jameson. He isn't flashy or flirtatious, and his family business has deep roots in town. But Gavin is still out there hunting new victims, and he hasn't forgotten the one who got away.
Former Army brat Morgan Albright has finally planted roots in a friendly neighborhood near Baltimore. Her friend and roommate Nina helps her make the mortgage payments, as does Morgan's job as a bartender. But after she and Nina host their first dinner party—attended by Luke, the flirtatious IT guy who'd been chatting her up at the bar—her carefully built world is shattered. The back door glass is broken, cash and jewelry are missing, her car is gone, and Nina lies dead on the floor.
Soon, a horrific truth emerges: It was Morgan who let the monster in. "Luke” is actually a cold-hearted con artist named Gavin who targets a particular type of woman, steals her assets and identity, and then commits his ultimate goal: murder.
What the FBI tells Morgan is beyond chilling. Nina wasn't his type. Morgan is. Nina was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. And Morgan's nightmare is just beginning. Soon she has no choice but to flee to her mother's home in Vermont. While she struggles to build something new, she meets another man, Miles Jameson. He isn't flashy or flirtatious, and his family business has deep roots in town. But Gavin is still out there hunting new victims, and he hasn't forgotten the one who got away.
437 pages, Hardcover
First published May 23, 2023
About the author
Nora Roberts
1,784 books54.4k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,566 reviews
May 18, 2023
Nora Roberts brings readers another wonderful romantic suspense novel,
Identity
. Former army brat Morgan Albright has settled in a neighborhood near Baltimore, Maryland. Her day job as an office manager for a family-owned construction company and her night job as a bartender are helping her get closer to her goal of owning her own bar. She purchased a house and has a friend and housemate, Nina Ramos, who helps with the mortgage payment. However, after their first dinner party, Morgan’s life is shattered. Cash and jewelry are missing, Morgan’s car is gone, and Nina is dead. It soon becomes apparent that a con artist has also stolen Morgan’s identity and assets, and this isn’t his first time. FBI agents arrive, and Morgan struggles to rebuild her life in Vermont. Meanwhile, the killer is getting reckless and failing to cope with life due to his failure to kill Morgan.
Morgan is capable, resilient, a person who makes plans and works towards them, responsible, organized, a fast learner, and creative. Several characters have an impact on Morgan. Luke Hudson is friendly, interesting, a good listener, and confident. Miles Jameson is attractive, blunt, kind, considerate, and respects and values others. These characters, as well as several others in the novel, are well defined with depth and complex traits. They were portrayed in a way that brought them to life.
Readers quickly learn who the murderer is. The suspense is around when this individual will come after Morgan again since she is the one who got away. Meanwhile readers are treated to Morgan’s reconnection with her family and the rebuilding of her life. The book has a good mix of suspense and romance as well as an action-filled ending and is well-plotted. Readers are quickly pulled into the story line with fluid writing and great characterization that grabbed and held my attention and kept me engaged. The real-world issues added depth to the narrative. Themes include family, friendship, murder, grief, work ethic, identity theft, and much more.
Overall, this was a story that quickly pulled me into the narrative and the lives of Morgan and those around her. While the pacing isn’t as brisk as some romantic suspense novels, the author did a great job of building suspense throughout the story and I enjoyed the journey. She is a superb storyteller that intermingled the ever-present threat that was looming over Morgan and the rebuilding of her life. I would love to see this become a series. Readers of romantic suspense will likely enjoy this novel.
St. Martin’s Press and Nora Roberts provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 23, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Morgan is capable, resilient, a person who makes plans and works towards them, responsible, organized, a fast learner, and creative. Several characters have an impact on Morgan. Luke Hudson is friendly, interesting, a good listener, and confident. Miles Jameson is attractive, blunt, kind, considerate, and respects and values others. These characters, as well as several others in the novel, are well defined with depth and complex traits. They were portrayed in a way that brought them to life.
Readers quickly learn who the murderer is. The suspense is around when this individual will come after Morgan again since she is the one who got away. Meanwhile readers are treated to Morgan’s reconnection with her family and the rebuilding of her life. The book has a good mix of suspense and romance as well as an action-filled ending and is well-plotted. Readers are quickly pulled into the story line with fluid writing and great characterization that grabbed and held my attention and kept me engaged. The real-world issues added depth to the narrative. Themes include family, friendship, murder, grief, work ethic, identity theft, and much more.
Overall, this was a story that quickly pulled me into the narrative and the lives of Morgan and those around her. While the pacing isn’t as brisk as some romantic suspense novels, the author did a great job of building suspense throughout the story and I enjoyed the journey. She is a superb storyteller that intermingled the ever-present threat that was looming over Morgan and the rebuilding of her life. I would love to see this become a series. Readers of romantic suspense will likely enjoy this novel.
St. Martin’s Press and Nora Roberts provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for May 23, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
June 22, 2023
"Identity" is an engrossing book that seamlessly combines mystery, suspense, and a captivating romance. The link to the audiobook can be found here
Identity: A Novel
, narrated by January LaVoy. With its compelling plot and well-developed characters like Nina and Morgan, this novel held me in its grip from start to finish.
Nina, the tenacious and resilient protagonist, is a testament to Roberts' skill in creating strong and relatable female characters. Her determination to uncover the truth about her past and her unwavering spirit make her an admirable lead. As she delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding her identity, the stakes escalate, keeping me eagerly turning the pages.
Morgan, the intriguing and complex male lead, adds an element of intrigue and chemistry to the story. His enigmatic nature and undeniable charisma make him a captivating presence. The dynamic between Nina and Morgan sizzles with tension and sparks, drawing me further into their evolving relationship. Their interactions are filled with depth and emotional intensity, making their connection feel genuine and compelling.
The narration by January LaVoy is outstanding, bringing the characters and their emotions to life. LaVoy's voice modulation and portrayal of different characters are impeccable, immersing me in the story and adding an extra layer of authenticity to the audiobook experience. Her nuanced performance perfectly captures the essence of the characters, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the story.
"Identity" is a masterfully crafted mystery thriller, expertly executed by Nora Roberts. The intricate web of secrets and suspense kept me guessing until the final moments, and the satisfying resolution tied everything together seamlessly. Roberts' prose is engaging and evocative, painting vivid pictures in the listener's mind and immersing them in the world she has created.
The well-rounded characters, particularly Nina and Morgan, will stay with you long after the final chapter. If you're a fan of gripping narratives filled with intrigue and chemistry, this is a must-listen that won't disappoint.
Nina, the tenacious and resilient protagonist, is a testament to Roberts' skill in creating strong and relatable female characters. Her determination to uncover the truth about her past and her unwavering spirit make her an admirable lead. As she delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding her identity, the stakes escalate, keeping me eagerly turning the pages.
Morgan, the intriguing and complex male lead, adds an element of intrigue and chemistry to the story. His enigmatic nature and undeniable charisma make him a captivating presence. The dynamic between Nina and Morgan sizzles with tension and sparks, drawing me further into their evolving relationship. Their interactions are filled with depth and emotional intensity, making their connection feel genuine and compelling.
The narration by January LaVoy is outstanding, bringing the characters and their emotions to life. LaVoy's voice modulation and portrayal of different characters are impeccable, immersing me in the story and adding an extra layer of authenticity to the audiobook experience. Her nuanced performance perfectly captures the essence of the characters, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the story.
"Identity" is a masterfully crafted mystery thriller, expertly executed by Nora Roberts. The intricate web of secrets and suspense kept me guessing until the final moments, and the satisfying resolution tied everything together seamlessly. Roberts' prose is engaging and evocative, painting vivid pictures in the listener's mind and immersing them in the world she has created.
The well-rounded characters, particularly Nina and Morgan, will stay with you long after the final chapter. If you're a fan of gripping narratives filled with intrigue and chemistry, this is a must-listen that won't disappoint.
June 3, 2023
4.5
Women's fiction/ Romantic suspense
It would be a nightmare to have your identity stolen and all the complications that follow are just awful as well.
I loved Morgan and her resilience and authenticity. I became invested in her journey early in the novel and grew to care about her and enjoyed all the little life updates that she experienced. The small things like working as a bartender in a resort with hopes of owning her own place one day, learning to cook, reconnecting with family, and sharing her hopes and dreams.
Things go sideways early on when a cold-blooded man crosses her path and creates chaos. Serial killer on the loose!! This made the book a perfect blend of fluff and suspense.
All the love with some chills.....
The great characterization and flow of the story held my attention throughout. I can see why she is such a popular author. The last chapters were unputdownable with intense action and a satisfying ending.
I'd love this to be a series so I could follow along......
It was a bit long at 437 pages, so I opted to listen (15 hours/4 min) at 1.5 speed. The narrator, January LaVoy was 5 star spectacular
Women's fiction/ Romantic suspense
It would be a nightmare to have your identity stolen and all the complications that follow are just awful as well.
I loved Morgan and her resilience and authenticity. I became invested in her journey early in the novel and grew to care about her and enjoyed all the little life updates that she experienced. The small things like working as a bartender in a resort with hopes of owning her own place one day, learning to cook, reconnecting with family, and sharing her hopes and dreams.
Things go sideways early on when a cold-blooded man crosses her path and creates chaos. Serial killer on the loose!! This made the book a perfect blend of fluff and suspense.
All the love with some chills.....
The great characterization and flow of the story held my attention throughout. I can see why she is such a popular author. The last chapters were unputdownable with intense action and a satisfying ending.
I'd love this to be a series so I could follow along......
It was a bit long at 437 pages, so I opted to listen (15 hours/4 min) at 1.5 speed. The narrator, January LaVoy was 5 star spectacular
January 1, 2024
"Wasn't it miraculous, Morgan thought, to have someone love who you are, and never stop?"
Thank you so much to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an early copy of this book in return for an honest review. I will never feel as special again as I did when I got the acceptance email for Identity.
I've been reading Nora for years, but I've never been lucky enough to be the same age as one of her characters before. Morgan was different for so many reasons, but this one seemed to hit the hardest and the fastest. She's focused, hard-working, goal-oriented, practical, energized, happy, and all those other hopeful feelings you constantly wish to bask in when you are in your twenties.
She was where I am in my life right now, always ready for the next thing. Excited for the adventure waking up brings. And then something terrible happens. She loses so much in a moment, falls into that endless grief, only to realize it is so much worse than she could have imagined.
When someone steals your identity, you lose who you were, and you have to find a way to forge someone new. Morgan hits rock bottom, and it brought me back to how I felt in mine. How I leaned on my Mom, how Morgan leaned on hers. She was surrounded by love and comfort, but more than that, she was given a foundation to truly begin again. I don't think we ever understand how lucky we are until tragedy strikes, nor do we realize how much weight we carry until it lifts.
"You'll make new plans, build a new world."
And so she does. And what a joy it was to be a part of it. One of my absolute favorite things about Nora Roberts is how she makes the mundane feel exciting. I loved bar-tending with Morgan. I love spreadsheets so much that every time Nora brings them up, I want to make a million more for my own sanity. I love the three generations of Nash women, the roots, the joy, and the love between them.
I love that love is always so important.
I was on the edge of my seat for half of this, and spent the other half going between crying and laughing. There was so much joy between these pages. I've never felt so at home as I do when I'm reading a Nora book.
What got me the most about this read in particular was Miles. He's quiet, and poised, and carries his power with an invisible suite (as Morgan says). He treats her with so much respect that it's hard to imagine I ever believed Luke to be her match. He stands up for her, he lets her hold her own more than any other male I've ever read by Nora.
He's responsible, and grumpy, and magnetic, and full of so much kindness. I don't think either Miles or Morgan realized how lonely they were until they met the other. I don't think they were looking for someone until they recognized each other's hearts. Love that glows when you surround yourself with each other's worlds... well, that's more than just special.
That's true Identity.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for an early copy of this book in return for an honest review. I will never feel as special again as I did when I got the acceptance email for Identity.
I've been reading Nora for years, but I've never been lucky enough to be the same age as one of her characters before. Morgan was different for so many reasons, but this one seemed to hit the hardest and the fastest. She's focused, hard-working, goal-oriented, practical, energized, happy, and all those other hopeful feelings you constantly wish to bask in when you are in your twenties.
She was where I am in my life right now, always ready for the next thing. Excited for the adventure waking up brings. And then something terrible happens. She loses so much in a moment, falls into that endless grief, only to realize it is so much worse than she could have imagined.
When someone steals your identity, you lose who you were, and you have to find a way to forge someone new. Morgan hits rock bottom, and it brought me back to how I felt in mine. How I leaned on my Mom, how Morgan leaned on hers. She was surrounded by love and comfort, but more than that, she was given a foundation to truly begin again. I don't think we ever understand how lucky we are until tragedy strikes, nor do we realize how much weight we carry until it lifts.
"You'll make new plans, build a new world."
And so she does. And what a joy it was to be a part of it. One of my absolute favorite things about Nora Roberts is how she makes the mundane feel exciting. I loved bar-tending with Morgan. I love spreadsheets so much that every time Nora brings them up, I want to make a million more for my own sanity. I love the three generations of Nash women, the roots, the joy, and the love between them.
I love that love is always so important.
I was on the edge of my seat for half of this, and spent the other half going between crying and laughing. There was so much joy between these pages. I've never felt so at home as I do when I'm reading a Nora book.
What got me the most about this read in particular was Miles. He's quiet, and poised, and carries his power with an invisible suite (as Morgan says). He treats her with so much respect that it's hard to imagine I ever believed Luke to be her match. He stands up for her, he lets her hold her own more than any other male I've ever read by Nora.
He's responsible, and grumpy, and magnetic, and full of so much kindness. I don't think either Miles or Morgan realized how lonely they were until they met the other. I don't think they were looking for someone until they recognized each other's hearts. Love that glows when you surround yourself with each other's worlds... well, that's more than just special.
That's true Identity.
March 8, 2023
Identity is essentially about a woman getting her life back after a conman steals her identity, ruins her financially, and murders her roommate. It’s being marketed as a mystery/thriller but it’s really not. The pacing is too leisurely. It’s also not really a romance either. We barely know Miles before they hook up (which I felt was completely out of left field). There was absolutely no build up (or you know… foreplay) to their relationship. In my eyes, he was a walking red flag and not the knight in shining armor the author was trying to write him as.
I liked Morgan as a main character but every time she referred to her mom and gran as “her ladies,” I cringed. It was annoying and weird. Another big issue I had was in the dialogue. There was soooo much of it. And everyone talks like they’ve had years of therapy and watch nothing but after school specials about how to express their feelings. Talking like that is the exception, not the norm. It was hard to take any of the characters too seriously. No one got angry! It was all sunshine and rainbows… all of the time. Wait… no… one character did. But a few chapters later she told Morgan she was wrong about her, and then that was that.
It’s an okay book. I wish there was more Gavin chapters and less chapters about Morgan’s mundane shifts at work. And… spoiler alert the dog doesn’t die… so that made me happy.
I liked Morgan as a main character but every time she referred to her mom and gran as “her ladies,” I cringed. It was annoying and weird. Another big issue I had was in the dialogue. There was soooo much of it. And everyone talks like they’ve had years of therapy and watch nothing but after school specials about how to express their feelings. Talking like that is the exception, not the norm. It was hard to take any of the characters too seriously. No one got angry! It was all sunshine and rainbows… all of the time. Wait… no… one character did. But a few chapters later she told Morgan she was wrong about her, and then that was that.
It’s an okay book. I wish there was more Gavin chapters and less chapters about Morgan’s mundane shifts at work. And… spoiler alert the dog doesn’t die… so that made me happy.
October 4, 2023
Outlier is me.🙈
Morgan has to start over when a hot IT guy murdered her roommate/BFF and stole her identity.
I think the blurb is very detailed and pretty much covers the whole book but the ending.
I'll get to the point why Identity didn't work for me. It felt too wordy.
There was too much detail in hospitality and bartending. I admit it's interesting, not everyone wants to read a FMC as a writer, author, or editor all the time so this is welcome but I don't think I care enough about every little detail, and makes the pacing terrible. But you may like it more.
Nora Roberts knows how to reel me back with a great supporting cast. Her ladies -mom and gran, The Nash Women. Also, the family she works for is sooo nice. They form that "feel-good" niche in this romantic suspense.
Things move forward nicely in the last hour or from chapter 30 onward. It's a little comical that the bad guy has drastically changed from who they were in the beginning. Wish as a whole it was mostly exciting as the last part. Hopefully, I'll enjoy her next novel more. 2.5⭐
Spicy romance 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Morgan has to start over when a hot IT guy murdered her roommate/BFF and stole her identity.
I think the blurb is very detailed and pretty much covers the whole book but the ending.
I'll get to the point why Identity didn't work for me. It felt too wordy.
There was too much detail in hospitality and bartending. I admit it's interesting, not everyone wants to read a FMC as a writer, author, or editor all the time so this is welcome but I don't think I care enough about every little detail, and makes the pacing terrible. But you may like it more.
Nora Roberts knows how to reel me back with a great supporting cast. Her ladies -mom and gran, The Nash Women. Also, the family she works for is sooo nice. They form that "feel-good" niche in this romantic suspense.
Things move forward nicely in the last hour or from chapter 30 onward. It's a little comical that the bad guy has drastically changed from who they were in the beginning. Wish as a whole it was mostly exciting as the last part. Hopefully, I'll enjoy her next novel more. 2.5⭐
Spicy romance 🌶️🌶️🌶️
October 2, 2023
If a guy proposes to you by outright stating: "We're getting married", run.
I expected this book to be about identity theft. It was, for about 10%. The rest was the main character pouring drinks, falling in love with a not at all toxic Prince Charming (and I'm not talking about the murderer) and having stilted conversations.
I was mildly entertained. Which beats not being entertained at all, I guess.
I expected this book to be about identity theft. It was, for about 10%. The rest was the main character pouring drinks, falling in love with a not at all toxic Prince Charming (and I'm not talking about the murderer) and having stilted conversations.
I was mildly entertained. Which beats not being entertained at all, I guess.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2023
the setup…
Morgan Albright is finally living her best life. She’s put down roots in a small, friendly town outside of Baltimore and that’s extremely important given the vagabond life she led as an Army brat. Her best friend Nina Ramos is also her roommate, helping with the mortgage, and Morgan loves both of her jobs. She works for a wonderful family-owned home construction business and loves her part time job as a bartender. But it all shatters when the handsome IT expert Luke Hudson inserts himself into her life, leaving death, destruction and heartbreak in his wake. He’s actually Gavin Rozwell, a con artist who first charms his intended victim, steals her identity and then kills her as he leaves town. But, he had to leave before he could murder Morgan who remains the one who got away, forced to retreat to her mother’s home in Vermont, broken and destitute.
the heart of the story…
What happened to Morgan was not only heartbreaking but maddening. The financial destruction Gavin wreaked felt unfair and vicious. You’d think in this day and age we’d have the technological expertise to quickly capture a serial killer and identity thief like Gavin but he was exceptionally skilled and cagey. Morgan’s return home was therapeutic on many levels but mostly her reconnecting with her mother and grandmother, two extraordinary women who knew exactly what she needed. Her new job as the manager of a resort bar gave her purpose, new direction and unexpected romance with the owner’s grandson, Miles Jameson. It was uplifting to see Morgan not only regain her sense of self but become stronger because of the journey. Her relationship with Miles was a slow burn but that felt right.
the narration…
Anytime I see January LaVoy listed as the narrator, I’m more than interested. She always makes it seem like there are multiple narrators, skillfully handling a host of characters, delivering an outstanding performance on every level including great storytelling. FYI, she’s tied for the #1 spot on my list of favorite narrators.
the bottom line…
I enjoyed this story, which was quite the saga as Morgan tumbled down a mountain and clawed her way back to take control of her life, all with Gavin lurking in the background, continuing his murderous pursuits all over the country. You knew there would be a reckoning so that kept the tension high. I liked how it didn’t overshadow the romance even though the threat was real. This was a story of resilience as well as a cautionary tale about who we allow entry into our inner sanctums before that right is earned. I loved Morgan, one of Roberts’ more well developed characters, complete with strengths and flaws that made her authentic. The ending was so very satisfying and listening to the story made it the best of reading experiences.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Morgan Albright is finally living her best life. She’s put down roots in a small, friendly town outside of Baltimore and that’s extremely important given the vagabond life she led as an Army brat. Her best friend Nina Ramos is also her roommate, helping with the mortgage, and Morgan loves both of her jobs. She works for a wonderful family-owned home construction business and loves her part time job as a bartender. But it all shatters when the handsome IT expert Luke Hudson inserts himself into her life, leaving death, destruction and heartbreak in his wake. He’s actually Gavin Rozwell, a con artist who first charms his intended victim, steals her identity and then kills her as he leaves town. But, he had to leave before he could murder Morgan who remains the one who got away, forced to retreat to her mother’s home in Vermont, broken and destitute.
the heart of the story…
What happened to Morgan was not only heartbreaking but maddening. The financial destruction Gavin wreaked felt unfair and vicious. You’d think in this day and age we’d have the technological expertise to quickly capture a serial killer and identity thief like Gavin but he was exceptionally skilled and cagey. Morgan’s return home was therapeutic on many levels but mostly her reconnecting with her mother and grandmother, two extraordinary women who knew exactly what she needed. Her new job as the manager of a resort bar gave her purpose, new direction and unexpected romance with the owner’s grandson, Miles Jameson. It was uplifting to see Morgan not only regain her sense of self but become stronger because of the journey. Her relationship with Miles was a slow burn but that felt right.
the narration…
Anytime I see January LaVoy listed as the narrator, I’m more than interested. She always makes it seem like there are multiple narrators, skillfully handling a host of characters, delivering an outstanding performance on every level including great storytelling. FYI, she’s tied for the #1 spot on my list of favorite narrators.
the bottom line…
I enjoyed this story, which was quite the saga as Morgan tumbled down a mountain and clawed her way back to take control of her life, all with Gavin lurking in the background, continuing his murderous pursuits all over the country. You knew there would be a reckoning so that kept the tension high. I liked how it didn’t overshadow the romance even though the threat was real. This was a story of resilience as well as a cautionary tale about who we allow entry into our inner sanctums before that right is earned. I loved Morgan, one of Roberts’ more well developed characters, complete with strengths and flaws that made her authentic. The ending was so very satisfying and listening to the story made it the best of reading experiences.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
May 24, 2023
It's release week!! Who has it on their tbr list for this summer?
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Love, love, love her writing. ♡
NR is such a gerat writer. I really paid attention this time to how often the author picked up a thought from pages/chapters earlier with such skill. The conversations flow so natural that way and the plot never stalls. She is someone new authors really should check out.
Anyway, to the book....
As always I'm a big fan of her standalone contemporary novels. I love that she always picks a topic and really researches the heck out of it. This time it's about identity theft and it just boggled my mind to think about the mess it can make out of one's life.
Also, I loved that our heroine worked as bartender/manager of a bar, another part of the book that was really well researched and put to paper.
Same with the three generation house (just loved The Ladies) and the big family meetings and of course the dog. I'm a sucker for all of it. Everything together makes for a feel-good novel, with a suspense element that doesn't take away from the romantic leads.
I'm also a big fan of how the author brings her main characters together. The couple enjoyed a slow burn over months, which was so well done, and gave the story and their relationship so much more depth and meaning. Loved them together.
So, another great book by one of my most favorite authors, and I'm already exited about the next one.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
___________________________________
Love, love, love her writing. ♡
NR is such a gerat writer. I really paid attention this time to how often the author picked up a thought from pages/chapters earlier with such skill. The conversations flow so natural that way and the plot never stalls. She is someone new authors really should check out.
Anyway, to the book....
As always I'm a big fan of her standalone contemporary novels. I love that she always picks a topic and really researches the heck out of it. This time it's about identity theft and it just boggled my mind to think about the mess it can make out of one's life.
Also, I loved that our heroine worked as bartender/manager of a bar, another part of the book that was really well researched and put to paper.
Same with the three generation house (just loved The Ladies) and the big family meetings and of course the dog. I'm a sucker for all of it. Everything together makes for a feel-good novel, with a suspense element that doesn't take away from the romantic leads.
I'm also a big fan of how the author brings her main characters together. The couple enjoyed a slow burn over months, which was so well done, and gave the story and their relationship so much more depth and meaning. Loved them together.
So, another great book by one of my most favorite authors, and I'm already exited about the next one.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
May 24, 2023
Identity by Nora Roberts
Contemporary romantic suspense.
Morgan Albright owned an old house she loves near Baltimore. She has a roommate that helps Morgan pay the mortgage. She has a bartending job she loves at a local bar. Morgan has plans for the house and her future. One night at the bar there is a new customer. Friendly, but not obnoxious or overdone. He stays for only two drinks then leaves. After several more drop-in’s at the bar, he asks her out. Morgan is careful to meet him at a restaurant for their first date and all goes well. He attends a small event at her hose with friends. All is good.
Until he breaks into the house, kills the roommate and basically steals everything in Morgan’s life. Multiple loans in her name. New credit cards in her name. He cleared out all her bank accounts and took any jewelry and cash he was able to find in the house. There’s even a loan shark looking for a payback. He took everything from Morgan except her life. It’s what he intended, but the roommate got in the way. Morgan cuts ties, sells the house, and moves home to live with her mother to start fresh.
But he doesn’t forget she’s the only one that lived. And she’s going to have to pay.
Compelling and breath taking. It’s a novel you won’t want to put down.
I liked the grumpy sunshine aspect of her new relationship with Miles. And the dog, Howl is amusing. He won’t play fetch with Miles but he will with Morgan. Too cute.
But the scary serial killer is a mess!
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy.
Contemporary romantic suspense.
Morgan Albright owned an old house she loves near Baltimore. She has a roommate that helps Morgan pay the mortgage. She has a bartending job she loves at a local bar. Morgan has plans for the house and her future. One night at the bar there is a new customer. Friendly, but not obnoxious or overdone. He stays for only two drinks then leaves. After several more drop-in’s at the bar, he asks her out. Morgan is careful to meet him at a restaurant for their first date and all goes well. He attends a small event at her hose with friends. All is good.
Until he breaks into the house, kills the roommate and basically steals everything in Morgan’s life. Multiple loans in her name. New credit cards in her name. He cleared out all her bank accounts and took any jewelry and cash he was able to find in the house. There’s even a loan shark looking for a payback. He took everything from Morgan except her life. It’s what he intended, but the roommate got in the way. Morgan cuts ties, sells the house, and moves home to live with her mother to start fresh.
But he doesn’t forget she’s the only one that lived. And she’s going to have to pay.
Compelling and breath taking. It’s a novel you won’t want to put down.
I liked the grumpy sunshine aspect of her new relationship with Miles. And the dog, Howl is amusing. He won’t play fetch with Miles but he will with Morgan. Too cute.
But the scary serial killer is a mess!
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy.
June 29, 2023
4.5 Stars
She's the Queen of Romance for a reason, folks!
As well-written and consuming as any Nora Roberts story I’ve ever read—and there have been many—Identity is romantic suspense at its slightly disturbing and engrossing best.
The synopsis doesn’t give much away but I believe that worked in this stories favour.
As with most Roberts’ reads, I found the characters and the plot immediately gripping. She really does writes excellent characters, who are complex and likeable in a very real way; who share dialogue that jumps off the page and feels grounded in reality.
This story is long, yes, but I was never bored. I loved the way the suspense stuff, which was appropriately creepy, blended amongst the everyday happenings in Morgan’s new life in small-town Vermont.
And, speaking of Vermont, I was about damn ready to pack my bags and move to this place, that’s how idyllic and cosy a vibe Roberts created with her setting.
I liked the characters a lot, rooting for and relating to heroine Morgan a great deal, despite the fact I’ve never been hunted by a serial killer. She was a strong female lead and I respected the hell out of her for it.
The love story was definitely of lesser focus than Morgan and her fight to rebuild a life for herself post-trauma, but it needed to be. Miles, the love interest, was likeable enough but I was thankful their budding relationship didn’t overshadow the seriousness of the threats still at hand.
I’m also weirdly glad that we got chapters, scattered throughout the story, from the killers POV. He was one disturbed unit but I kinda enjoyed being in his head, as strange as that may sound. Giving him a voice and a story made the horror of what he was doing more real, which only added to the success of this working as a great suspense plot.
Overall, this was a fun and captivating new read by the incomparable Nora Roberts and one that should go over a treat with all romantic suspense fans.
She's the Queen of Romance for a reason, folks!
As well-written and consuming as any Nora Roberts story I’ve ever read—and there have been many—Identity is romantic suspense at its slightly disturbing and engrossing best.
The synopsis doesn’t give much away but I believe that worked in this stories favour.
As with most Roberts’ reads, I found the characters and the plot immediately gripping. She really does writes excellent characters, who are complex and likeable in a very real way; who share dialogue that jumps off the page and feels grounded in reality.
This story is long, yes, but I was never bored. I loved the way the suspense stuff, which was appropriately creepy, blended amongst the everyday happenings in Morgan’s new life in small-town Vermont.
And, speaking of Vermont, I was about damn ready to pack my bags and move to this place, that’s how idyllic and cosy a vibe Roberts created with her setting.
I liked the characters a lot, rooting for and relating to heroine Morgan a great deal, despite the fact I’ve never been hunted by a serial killer. She was a strong female lead and I respected the hell out of her for it.
The love story was definitely of lesser focus than Morgan and her fight to rebuild a life for herself post-trauma, but it needed to be. Miles, the love interest, was likeable enough but I was thankful their budding relationship didn’t overshadow the seriousness of the threats still at hand.
I’m also weirdly glad that we got chapters, scattered throughout the story, from the killers POV. He was one disturbed unit but I kinda enjoyed being in his head, as strange as that may sound. Giving him a voice and a story made the horror of what he was doing more real, which only added to the success of this working as a great suspense plot.
Overall, this was a fun and captivating new read by the incomparable Nora Roberts and one that should go over a treat with all romantic suspense fans.
March 11, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
IDENTITY by Nora Roberts is a perfectly balanced romantic suspense that I read straight through in one sitting. This is a standalone story featuring a young, vibrant professional bartender who becomes “the one who got away” from an obsessive serial killer who steals his victims’ identities, drains their accounts, strangles them, and then robs all their valuables.
Morgan Albright has been uprooted her entire life as an Army brat, but now outside of Baltimore, she works two jobs and has a roommate to own her own home. Morgan and Nina have become very close and are more than just roommates, they feel like sisters. When they decide to have a dinner party at their home, Morgan does not realize the charming man she has met at the bar she works at is not an IT executive but a conman and killer, who targets a particular type of woman.
Morgan comes home from work to discover her home robbed, her car gone and her roommate dead on the floor of her office.
Morgan learns from the FBI that the man she knew as Luke, was not, but is a serial con artist, thief, and murderer. Morgan moves home to Vermont to live with her grandmother and mother as she begins to rebuild her life. Her new job introduces her to an interesting new man who helps her enjoy herself again as they build their relationship, but there are messages sent to her from all over the country reminding her that she will not get away forever.
I always look forward to a new Nora Roberts or J.D. Robb book because they just never disappoint. I fell right into this story, the characters lives, the suspense and the romance and I never looked up again until ‘The End’ very late at night or very early in the morning, depending on how you look at it. Morgan is a wonderful heroine with an upbeat attitude towards her customers and life itself. She worked so hard, not once but twice in her life to make her personal dreams come true. I also love how she worked to make herself physically stronger. The generational household showed the deep connections the women had and their love for each other. The dialogue between them was very entertaining. Miles was a swoon worthy alpha hero who shows his love for family and Morgan through what he does for them even when he seems a little overbearing, Morgan stands up to him. The cat and mouse suspense plot between Morgan and Gavin kept me turning the pages.
I highly recommend this great romantic suspense and author!
IDENTITY by Nora Roberts is a perfectly balanced romantic suspense that I read straight through in one sitting. This is a standalone story featuring a young, vibrant professional bartender who becomes “the one who got away” from an obsessive serial killer who steals his victims’ identities, drains their accounts, strangles them, and then robs all their valuables.
Morgan Albright has been uprooted her entire life as an Army brat, but now outside of Baltimore, she works two jobs and has a roommate to own her own home. Morgan and Nina have become very close and are more than just roommates, they feel like sisters. When they decide to have a dinner party at their home, Morgan does not realize the charming man she has met at the bar she works at is not an IT executive but a conman and killer, who targets a particular type of woman.
Morgan comes home from work to discover her home robbed, her car gone and her roommate dead on the floor of her office.
Morgan learns from the FBI that the man she knew as Luke, was not, but is a serial con artist, thief, and murderer. Morgan moves home to Vermont to live with her grandmother and mother as she begins to rebuild her life. Her new job introduces her to an interesting new man who helps her enjoy herself again as they build their relationship, but there are messages sent to her from all over the country reminding her that she will not get away forever.
I always look forward to a new Nora Roberts or J.D. Robb book because they just never disappoint. I fell right into this story, the characters lives, the suspense and the romance and I never looked up again until ‘The End’ very late at night or very early in the morning, depending on how you look at it. Morgan is a wonderful heroine with an upbeat attitude towards her customers and life itself. She worked so hard, not once but twice in her life to make her personal dreams come true. I also love how she worked to make herself physically stronger. The generational household showed the deep connections the women had and their love for each other. The dialogue between them was very entertaining. Miles was a swoon worthy alpha hero who shows his love for family and Morgan through what he does for them even when he seems a little overbearing, Morgan stands up to him. The cat and mouse suspense plot between Morgan and Gavin kept me turning the pages.
I highly recommend this great romantic suspense and author!
March 19, 2023
I have never read a Nora Roberts book and I felt it was about time. Sadly, this one was not for me. The story started very interesting, and I enjoy the characters. After 10% was like watching someone’s real (boring) life in real time. Every workday, every drink, every step laid out on the page. After 50% I skimmed a ton. For a book that could have had a lot of drama it was one of the dullest ones I ever read.
Recommended For: Only read if you have read Nora Roberts before, do not start here.
Recommended For: Only read if you have read Nora Roberts before, do not start here.
June 24, 2023
There is a lot to unpack in this absolute disaster of a book. First, thank god it’s over! Second, why are there so many good reviews for this absolute drivel?!? What has happened to Nora Roberts is sad. She was the reason I fell in love with reading to begin with and that will make me grateful to her but she has become an absolute mockery of her previous self. Probably the past six to seven of her books could be interchangeable, just replace names, a few of the plot devices and there would be a “new” book created.
I once read her proudly state she wrote every word of every one of her books and to that I say, wow what an accomplishment. If she’s paid by the word I wouldn’t be surprised as there are so many conversations, descriptions and superfluous bullshit liberally spread through this entire joke of a book that is the ONLY explanation of why this was so long and drawn out. Also, the woman can’t make a complete sentence if her damn life depended on it. Even the conversations are that scattered. Absolutely no one talks like that outside of a liberal elite think tank. Anyhoo.
So the heroine Morgan was about as annoying as any I’ve read. If I have to hear about sangria (cringe!!!) or frog fountains again in my entire lifetime I will barf. Seriously that was not necessary. Also, this is a thriller? No it’s not. Nothing thrilling here especially when it comes to her “ladies”. Vomit.
And that big bad serial killer. Wow he was well thought out (um not really)
I’m super glad tho that Roberts got to bash on Christians though through the prepper lady who was murdered by this serial killer. She also had the bonus big bad AR 15!! Wow!!! She was also involved in hating the government and anti vaccine. Thanks for tipping your hand Nora, I wasn’t sure what your political leaning was, haha! (Just kidding I did know when she picked Alyssa Milano to star in her movie!)
Anyway, I’m sure the definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results and I can’t imagine why I keep reading Nora Robert’s books knowing what I’ve know the past several years, which is they have all been TERRIBLE! So officially now I am pledging to be done with her from here on out. She is a washed up writer who has no good ideas left.
I once read her proudly state she wrote every word of every one of her books and to that I say, wow what an accomplishment. If she’s paid by the word I wouldn’t be surprised as there are so many conversations, descriptions and superfluous bullshit liberally spread through this entire joke of a book that is the ONLY explanation of why this was so long and drawn out. Also, the woman can’t make a complete sentence if her damn life depended on it. Even the conversations are that scattered. Absolutely no one talks like that outside of a liberal elite think tank. Anyhoo.
So the heroine Morgan was about as annoying as any I’ve read. If I have to hear about sangria (cringe!!!) or frog fountains again in my entire lifetime I will barf. Seriously that was not necessary. Also, this is a thriller? No it’s not. Nothing thrilling here especially when it comes to her “ladies”. Vomit.
And that big bad serial killer. Wow he was well thought out (um not really)
I’m super glad tho that Roberts got to bash on Christians though through the prepper lady who was murdered by this serial killer. She also had the bonus big bad AR 15!! Wow!!! She was also involved in hating the government and anti vaccine. Thanks for tipping your hand Nora, I wasn’t sure what your political leaning was, haha! (Just kidding I did know when she picked Alyssa Milano to star in her movie!)
Anyway, I’m sure the definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting different results and I can’t imagine why I keep reading Nora Robert’s books knowing what I’ve know the past several years, which is they have all been TERRIBLE! So officially now I am pledging to be done with her from here on out. She is a washed up writer who has no good ideas left.
April 23, 2023
Thank you Netgalley, Nora Roberts and St. Martins Press for letting me read “Identity” in exchange for an honest review.
This is my second Nora Roberts novel, the first I’ve read like twenty odd years ago.
I had a bit of a struggle with this one. I had this in my shelf for a long time but I could not get into it. I tried, put it away, tried again and finally made myself reading it (to be done with it).
Synopsis:
Morgan finally settled down after a life on the move, her father was on the military. She has a tight plan of what she wants to achieve. She bought her house, pays off mortgage and works two jobs. Her roommate Nina is also her best friend.
One night she meets “Luke” when working at the bar. He is charming and flirty. They go out for a couple of dates before she invites him into her home for a double date with Nina and Sam.
Shortly after she finds Nina murdered in her home. The work of Luke. Nina was at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Luke is already wanted by the FBI. If losing her best friend was not enough, Luke also steals Morgans’s identity. She is on the brink of losing everything.
She relocates to Vermont, where her mother and grandmother live. She starts over. But Luke is not done yet. Morgan is the one who got away…
My opinion:
I really struggles with this one at first. The writing is not my favourite, at all. It was kind of repetitive. The pacing was also off. It took a long time for things to get interesting. The relationship with Miles felt like it appeared out of thin air. I didn’t get a spark or a connection. It didn’t work.
The book could have been shorter. My main problem was that I got no connection between the main characters. I understood it was supposed to be there based on what was said, but I could not feel it.
I did like the concept of the story though.
This is my second Nora Roberts novel, the first I’ve read like twenty odd years ago.
I had a bit of a struggle with this one. I had this in my shelf for a long time but I could not get into it. I tried, put it away, tried again and finally made myself reading it (to be done with it).
Synopsis:
Morgan finally settled down after a life on the move, her father was on the military. She has a tight plan of what she wants to achieve. She bought her house, pays off mortgage and works two jobs. Her roommate Nina is also her best friend.
One night she meets “Luke” when working at the bar. He is charming and flirty. They go out for a couple of dates before she invites him into her home for a double date with Nina and Sam.
Shortly after she finds Nina murdered in her home. The work of Luke. Nina was at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Luke is already wanted by the FBI. If losing her best friend was not enough, Luke also steals Morgans’s identity. She is on the brink of losing everything.
She relocates to Vermont, where her mother and grandmother live. She starts over. But Luke is not done yet. Morgan is the one who got away…
My opinion:
I really struggles with this one at first. The writing is not my favourite, at all. It was kind of repetitive. The pacing was also off. It took a long time for things to get interesting. The relationship with Miles felt like it appeared out of thin air. I didn’t get a spark or a connection. It didn’t work.
The book could have been shorter. My main problem was that I got no connection between the main characters. I understood it was supposed to be there based on what was said, but I could not feel it.
I did like the concept of the story though.
May 28, 2023
Lay Your Roots
The only thing I can say is: Wow! Strong empowered woman, catchy story line with a little murder thrown in. One for my favorites shelf for sure!
The only thing I can say is: Wow! Strong empowered woman, catchy story line with a little murder thrown in. One for my favorites shelf for sure!
August 1, 2023
My favourite Quote from the book
“Karma’s not just a bitch, she’s a righteous bitch”
Morgan Albright- Nash was raised in a military family always moving from place to place. She wanted to plant roots in a community after moving around so often when she was younger, and eventually open up her own neighbourhood bar. she works two jobs to make her dream a reality. she has a roommate Nina to help with the expenses. They became close like sisters, but then everything palls apart, after finding her roommate dead, her identity stolen. She can't stay in Maryland going backwards moving into a apartment, knowing everything she had is gone. After inviting Luke a con artist into Morgan's and Nina's life's. Morgan heads to Vermont to live with her Gram and Mother.
For Gavin Rozwell , Morgan is the one who got away, and lived. his luck has changed since meeting her, Rozwell blames her, he wanted to kill her not Nina. He'll bide his time, whilst keeping tabs on the one that got away, and he will not be satisfied, until she gets whats coming to her.
The FBI are keeping Morgan regularly updated with any new updates on Rozwell. While Morgan is slowly rebuilding her life, she lands herself a job, as a manager at apres, that she absolutely loves. At the Jameson family owned world class resort. Morgan finds herself falling in love with Miles and his dog howl, who I absolutely fell for he, reminded me so much of my dog Mr. Beasley. The characters leap from the pages, I felt like I was right there alongside Morgan on her journey throughout the story, I was spellbound with how I could see in my mind so clearly the three generations of Nash women and, the Jameson family., I fell in love with Morgan’s strength, determination, loyalty and the way she can relate to her customers with such ease. The way Roberts intertwines family throughout the story kept me engaged, and never bored, with a psychopath toying with Morgan emotionally trying to unnerve her.
Gavin Rozwell will be surprised to see, just how strong she has become with the help of her family and work family.
I highly recommend this book who are fans of women's fiction, crime fiction and family generation stories. Who enjoys descriptive writing that you can see, smell and taste the atmosphere. I really enjoyed reading this book it made me want to be a part of the Nash family, have their close relationship, strength and courage I fell in love with both families and I will be remember them as they have a special place in my heart.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A special thanks to the publishers at St. Martin’s Press for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
“Karma’s not just a bitch, she’s a righteous bitch”
Morgan Albright- Nash was raised in a military family always moving from place to place. She wanted to plant roots in a community after moving around so often when she was younger, and eventually open up her own neighbourhood bar. she works two jobs to make her dream a reality. she has a roommate Nina to help with the expenses. They became close like sisters, but then everything palls apart, after finding her roommate dead, her identity stolen. She can't stay in Maryland going backwards moving into a apartment, knowing everything she had is gone. After inviting Luke a con artist into Morgan's and Nina's life's. Morgan heads to Vermont to live with her Gram and Mother.
For Gavin Rozwell , Morgan is the one who got away, and lived. his luck has changed since meeting her, Rozwell blames her, he wanted to kill her not Nina. He'll bide his time, whilst keeping tabs on the one that got away, and he will not be satisfied, until she gets whats coming to her.
The FBI are keeping Morgan regularly updated with any new updates on Rozwell. While Morgan is slowly rebuilding her life, she lands herself a job, as a manager at apres, that she absolutely loves. At the Jameson family owned world class resort. Morgan finds herself falling in love with Miles and his dog howl, who I absolutely fell for he, reminded me so much of my dog Mr. Beasley. The characters leap from the pages, I felt like I was right there alongside Morgan on her journey throughout the story, I was spellbound with how I could see in my mind so clearly the three generations of Nash women and, the Jameson family., I fell in love with Morgan’s strength, determination, loyalty and the way she can relate to her customers with such ease. The way Roberts intertwines family throughout the story kept me engaged, and never bored, with a psychopath toying with Morgan emotionally trying to unnerve her.
Gavin Rozwell will be surprised to see, just how strong she has become with the help of her family and work family.
I highly recommend this book who are fans of women's fiction, crime fiction and family generation stories. Who enjoys descriptive writing that you can see, smell and taste the atmosphere. I really enjoyed reading this book it made me want to be a part of the Nash family, have their close relationship, strength and courage I fell in love with both families and I will be remember them as they have a special place in my heart.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A special thanks to the publishers at St. Martin’s Press for the ARC via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
May 14, 2023
4.5 stars - This felt like a return to the kind of stand alone suspense that I love from La Nora! My only critique was a little bit of padding or slowness in the middle, but I think if you don't binge this book you won't feel it as much. This had the family dynamics, the community vibes, and the competency porn that I love, plus the resort atmosphere reminded me of the Bridal Quartet in a wonderful way. All around, this is what I want from our annual NR stand alone 🎉
March 1, 2023
I love this one so much! Perfect blend of suspense, romance, wit, and a fab ending!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is quite long and I actually found myself so highly engaged that I could not stop reading. So instead of doing the work I was supposed to be working on, I was reading all day.
Roberts’ writing is superior when it comes to romantic suspense and that slow, dripping build-up.
This plot is addicting! Identity is unique and highly detailed, plus she ties in plenty of surprises that completely had me captivated.
The character development is spot on and I absolutely fell for Miles. I think his gruff exterior and deep feeling, mushy interior is why I couldn’t put this book down.
I really love the way Roberts captured the conversations between Miles and Morgan. Much of this book is written in short, choppy sentences, building that heightened hype and excitement.
We do know who the perpetrator is, but that also heightens the suspense as we get separate breakout chapters dealing with him and his activities specifically.
I just love this book! It is subtle and at times intense. Roberts builds tough resilient characters along with some wonderful family connections. I think this is a winner all around with the multiple aspects of romance, family, suspense, and crime tension. I could go on and on, but definitely put this one on your list!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/identity-by-...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book is quite long and I actually found myself so highly engaged that I could not stop reading. So instead of doing the work I was supposed to be working on, I was reading all day.
Roberts’ writing is superior when it comes to romantic suspense and that slow, dripping build-up.
This plot is addicting! Identity is unique and highly detailed, plus she ties in plenty of surprises that completely had me captivated.
The character development is spot on and I absolutely fell for Miles. I think his gruff exterior and deep feeling, mushy interior is why I couldn’t put this book down.
I really love the way Roberts captured the conversations between Miles and Morgan. Much of this book is written in short, choppy sentences, building that heightened hype and excitement.
We do know who the perpetrator is, but that also heightens the suspense as we get separate breakout chapters dealing with him and his activities specifically.
I just love this book! It is subtle and at times intense. Roberts builds tough resilient characters along with some wonderful family connections. I think this is a winner all around with the multiple aspects of romance, family, suspense, and crime tension. I could go on and on, but definitely put this one on your list!
* copy received for review consideration
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/identity-by-...
May 21, 2023
Nora Roberts never fails to deliver romance suspense novels that are highly engaging with just the right blend of romance and suspense. Identity is another fantastic example of this author's highly entertaining story telling ability as she pens a standalone story incorporating the high tech crime of identity theft into an intriguing plot line that includes murder.
Former army brat Morgan Albright is living in a neighborhood near Baltimore, Maryland. She works a day job as an office manager and a night shift as a bartender with dreams of one day owning her own bar. Her roommate, Nina Ramos, is a great friend who encourages Morgan to put herself out there and meet someone. The two decide to host a dinner party, and Morgan invites the new mysterious guy she's been chatting up at the bar. Things are looking up until the day she comes home from work to find her cash, jewelry and car missing . . . and Nina, who had stayed home from work sick, dead. Soon, Morgan's assets are depleted, and it's clear the thief has stolen her identity. It's also clear that Nina wasn't the intended target - Morgan was. And the killer doesn't intend to let her get away. Morgan moves to Vermont and starts her life over, but just when she thinks the nightmare is behind her, the killer surfaces again with taunts and threats to come for Morgan. The FBI are always one step behind him . . . can they catch him before he gets to Morgan?
Readers will learn very early on in the story who the con artist/murderer is, but it in no way diminishes the suspense in Identity. The story centers around Morgan rebuilding her life in her old home with her mother and grandmother as she settles into a new romantic relationship with Miles Jameson. Tension builds steadily, driven by the repeated threats from the murderer toward Morgan. She, as well as readers, knows he'll come for her. The anticipation of when, not if, he'll strike sets a dire tone of impending doom and an increasing pace as he draws closer. Characters are brilliantly developed, believable with great debt and complexity.
Roberts is a master at delivering well-written, highly entertaining stories that are hard to put down with strong, capable heroines and handsome, respectful heroes. The inclusion of family in Identity showcases Morgan's strong connection to her roots even as she rebuilds her life and learns to trust her own judgment and another man again. Strong threads of family, friendship, love, loss, grief and resilience are strong and flawlessly woven throughout. Fans of romance suspense will enjoy Identity as will readers of suspense thrillers. Highly recommended.
Special thanks to St. Martins Press for an arc of Identity. This book publishes May 23, 2023. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This review is published at Cross My Heart Reviews.
Former army brat Morgan Albright is living in a neighborhood near Baltimore, Maryland. She works a day job as an office manager and a night shift as a bartender with dreams of one day owning her own bar. Her roommate, Nina Ramos, is a great friend who encourages Morgan to put herself out there and meet someone. The two decide to host a dinner party, and Morgan invites the new mysterious guy she's been chatting up at the bar. Things are looking up until the day she comes home from work to find her cash, jewelry and car missing . . . and Nina, who had stayed home from work sick, dead. Soon, Morgan's assets are depleted, and it's clear the thief has stolen her identity. It's also clear that Nina wasn't the intended target - Morgan was. And the killer doesn't intend to let her get away. Morgan moves to Vermont and starts her life over, but just when she thinks the nightmare is behind her, the killer surfaces again with taunts and threats to come for Morgan. The FBI are always one step behind him . . . can they catch him before he gets to Morgan?
Readers will learn very early on in the story who the con artist/murderer is, but it in no way diminishes the suspense in Identity. The story centers around Morgan rebuilding her life in her old home with her mother and grandmother as she settles into a new romantic relationship with Miles Jameson. Tension builds steadily, driven by the repeated threats from the murderer toward Morgan. She, as well as readers, knows he'll come for her. The anticipation of when, not if, he'll strike sets a dire tone of impending doom and an increasing pace as he draws closer. Characters are brilliantly developed, believable with great debt and complexity.
Roberts is a master at delivering well-written, highly entertaining stories that are hard to put down with strong, capable heroines and handsome, respectful heroes. The inclusion of family in Identity showcases Morgan's strong connection to her roots even as she rebuilds her life and learns to trust her own judgment and another man again. Strong threads of family, friendship, love, loss, grief and resilience are strong and flawlessly woven throughout. Fans of romance suspense will enjoy Identity as will readers of suspense thrillers. Highly recommended.
Special thanks to St. Martins Press for an arc of Identity. This book publishes May 23, 2023. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This review is published at Cross My Heart Reviews.
April 17, 2023
Morgan Albright was driven. She worked two jobs not because she was struggling to make ends meet. Morgan worked two jobs to build a nest egg for future renovations in her dream home. Morgan loved her work as both an office manager at a construction firm and bartender at the local watering hole. Those two jobs left little time for social life, but Morgan didn’t mind.
Morgan’s circumstances changed when she met Luke Hudson while bartending. Luke was smooth. A smooth talker, gentlemanly, and gorgeous. So after several weeks of casual bar conversations, Luke invited Morgan on a date. Morgan was giddy, flattered and felt to lucky to finally be with someone who was smart, handsome, and financially well off (based on the very generous tips she received from him.)
But Morgan would soon find out that you can’t trust anyone, anytime.
An unputdownable read, Identity was a page turning romantic suspense story. And I think that Identity was so much better than Roberts’ recent standalone, Legacy.
The characters are very well developed and it was easy to get caught up in all of the drama that unfolded. I especially loved the character of Morgan as she was determined, steadfast, and brave throughout the story. Secondary to Morgan was Luke. Even if he was the villain, his character scared the heck out of me. The rest of the cast filled in to shape the narrative.
The story unfolds from a third person’s point of view. And this method of storytelling works very well in this particular novel. Especially since there were different dynamics at play — family, romance, and murder. All of the elements were deftly combined into a surprising and thrilling suspense novel worthy of five stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
Morgan’s circumstances changed when she met Luke Hudson while bartending. Luke was smooth. A smooth talker, gentlemanly, and gorgeous. So after several weeks of casual bar conversations, Luke invited Morgan on a date. Morgan was giddy, flattered and felt to lucky to finally be with someone who was smart, handsome, and financially well off (based on the very generous tips she received from him.)
But Morgan would soon find out that you can’t trust anyone, anytime.
An unputdownable read, Identity was a page turning romantic suspense story. And I think that Identity was so much better than Roberts’ recent standalone, Legacy.
The characters are very well developed and it was easy to get caught up in all of the drama that unfolded. I especially loved the character of Morgan as she was determined, steadfast, and brave throughout the story. Secondary to Morgan was Luke. Even if he was the villain, his character scared the heck out of me. The rest of the cast filled in to shape the narrative.
The story unfolds from a third person’s point of view. And this method of storytelling works very well in this particular novel. Especially since there were different dynamics at play — family, romance, and murder. All of the elements were deftly combined into a surprising and thrilling suspense novel worthy of five stars.
I received a digital ARC from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 20, 2023
Big thanks to Nora Roberts, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
2 ⭐️s
Plot: 3/5
Writing: 2/5
Ending: 3/5
Basic Plot: girl gets tricked by a man who steals her identity and murders her friend, she moves in with her mom and grandma, falls in love with another man, psychopath comes back after her.
My Thoughts:
Nora Roberts is usually an easy read for me. I love thrillers that have a bit of romance to them. But this one just didn't quite do it for me. The beginning had me hooked and I was all about this mysterious man who then went nuts and took everything from her. I actually really liked that Roberts got a little dark and gory with this one.
But then fast forward to the middle and it was just the same thing over and over again. Then the romance element came way too fast and what seemed like out of nowhere. One second she's thinking he's cute, next second she's jumping his bones. Also, why is everyone talking to their family about their sex lives??? WEIRD! Like girl, don't be tellin your grandma and mom about doing the dirty with your new boyfriend. THEN HE DOES THE SAME THING. I was over it.
No spoilers here about the ending... but that all happened way too fast. Things were dragging then all of a sudden it picks up the pace by 1000 then NORA just ends it. Like there was no suspense. No omg whats going to happen. It was like a short little chapter then poof everything is good. This book had some potential too. The plot was interested from the description. But then when it came to the execution it just fell flat. Will I still read a Robert's book? Absolutely. Keep them a bit gory like this one and I'll even be more all over them. But keep the family sex talk out of the next one.
2.5 star overall rating. It felt too long for me and dragged in the middle. Although some people may like the way it's laid out so give it a shot if Robert's is your go-to. I just personally needed more.
2 ⭐️s
Plot: 3/5
Writing: 2/5
Ending: 3/5
Basic Plot: girl gets tricked by a man who steals her identity and murders her friend, she moves in with her mom and grandma, falls in love with another man, psychopath comes back after her.
My Thoughts:
Nora Roberts is usually an easy read for me. I love thrillers that have a bit of romance to them. But this one just didn't quite do it for me. The beginning had me hooked and I was all about this mysterious man who then went nuts and took everything from her. I actually really liked that Roberts got a little dark and gory with this one.
But then fast forward to the middle and it was just the same thing over and over again. Then the romance element came way too fast and what seemed like out of nowhere. One second she's thinking he's cute, next second she's jumping his bones. Also, why is everyone talking to their family about their sex lives??? WEIRD! Like girl, don't be tellin your grandma and mom about doing the dirty with your new boyfriend. THEN HE DOES THE SAME THING. I was over it.
No spoilers here about the ending... but that all happened way too fast. Things were dragging then all of a sudden it picks up the pace by 1000 then NORA just ends it. Like there was no suspense. No omg whats going to happen. It was like a short little chapter then poof everything is good. This book had some potential too. The plot was interested from the description. But then when it came to the execution it just fell flat. Will I still read a Robert's book? Absolutely. Keep them a bit gory like this one and I'll even be more all over them. But keep the family sex talk out of the next one.
2.5 star overall rating. It felt too long for me and dragged in the middle. Although some people may like the way it's laid out so give it a shot if Robert's is your go-to. I just personally needed more.
January 10, 2024
Happy Pub Day 🥳
Morgan Albright, a former army brad, in her mid-twenties is a hard-working, smart and endearing woman with a social circle who has barely time to date anyone. Then one day, Luke, a tidy, handsome IT nerd walks in the bar where Morgan pulls night shifts to make ends meet. After all, she’s got responsibilities paying off the mortgage of the house she acquired. Nice times follow a casual pizza date when things abruptly turn when Nina, Morgan’s roommate is killed and Morgan is bereft by her identity.
A gripping thriller that I read with tension looking for clues in the cleverly laid out twists till I could finally find peace when I finished reading my first novel by Nora Roberts.
Easy 5-stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommended!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Find me on instagram
Morgan Albright, a former army brad, in her mid-twenties is a hard-working, smart and endearing woman with a social circle who has barely time to date anyone. Then one day, Luke, a tidy, handsome IT nerd walks in the bar where Morgan pulls night shifts to make ends meet. After all, she’s got responsibilities paying off the mortgage of the house she acquired. Nice times follow a casual pizza date when things abruptly turn when Nina, Morgan’s roommate is killed and Morgan is bereft by her identity.
A gripping thriller that I read with tension looking for clues in the cleverly laid out twists till I could finally find peace when I finished reading my first novel by Nora Roberts.
Easy 5-stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommended!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Find me on instagram
June 4, 2023
3.5 Stars
June 27, 2023
English / Español
The story is oriented towards the development of characters, family ties, work projects and love relationships.
If you are looking for a plot with a lot of suspense and intrigue, this is not the one for you.
The main love relationship is very well developed, realistically and step by step. Giving place to several scenes in which the characters share moments and dates.
Personally, although it is a nice story, it bored me a bit.
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La historia está orientada al desarrollo de personajes, vínculos familiares, proyectos laborales y relaciones amorosas.
Si buscás una trama con mucho suspenso e intriga, este no es el adecuado.
La principal relación amorosa está muy bien lograda, realísticamente y paso a paso. Dando lugar a varias escenas en las que los personajes comparten momentos y salidas.
En lo personal, si bien es una linda historia me aburrió un poco.
The story is oriented towards the development of characters, family ties, work projects and love relationships.
If you are looking for a plot with a lot of suspense and intrigue, this is not the one for you.
The main love relationship is very well developed, realistically and step by step. Giving place to several scenes in which the characters share moments and dates.
Personally, although it is a nice story, it bored me a bit.
-------
La historia está orientada al desarrollo de personajes, vínculos familiares, proyectos laborales y relaciones amorosas.
Si buscás una trama con mucho suspenso e intriga, este no es el adecuado.
La principal relación amorosa está muy bien lograda, realísticamente y paso a paso. Dando lugar a varias escenas en las que los personajes comparten momentos y salidas.
En lo personal, si bien es una linda historia me aburrió un poco.
May 25, 2024
my first nora roberts how exciting! the beginning was actually very fun and crazy but i lost interest in the middle and it became very hard to keep picking up the book when i had other, much more exciting things to read.
October 1, 2023
Her best writing voice is as the protagonist. The other characters, not so much. 4 of 10 stars
June 6, 2023
2.5 Too many details that weren't pertinent to the story. I think I could tend bar now and know how to make every drink known to man!
May 19, 2023
Please note that I received this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my rating or review.
Wow. What a fantastic romantic suspense novel by Roberts. It was such a nice slow burn and it had everything. I really loved the characters of Morgan and Miles and both of their respective families. The suspense part was well done with the book following a serial killer hell-bent on murdering women after stealing from them and taking their identities. There’s a lot happening but it works. A wonderful book to read on summer nights.
Full Review:
"Identity" follows bartender Morgan Albright. A former Army brat, she finally feels settled in a suburb near Baltimore. She bought a small house and has a best friend named Nina who moves in with her that helps her house feel complete. When Morgan meets a new man named Luke, she feels intrigued by him, but is not ready to move things much faster than a few dates/hang outs. But things change when Morgan comes home to find Nina murdered, and finds out the man named Luke is not who she thought he was. Left reeling after finding all of her money gone and tons of things taken out in her name, Morgan goes back to her grandmother and mother in Vermont. There she starts to heal and fall for one of her bosses, Miles.
As I said, this was a lovely slow burn. Roberts takes a long time building up everyone from Morgan, Miles, to Luke. Even Nina shines in this.
The plot was really great and I think the flow worked great. The book takes place over a year plus which I applaud. It always used to drive me crazy when romance books had the hero and heroine fall for each other in like a week and then pivot to an epilogue like 3 months later and the heroine is pregnant. It makes sense in terms of what Morgan goes through why this had to be a slower burn romance.
The setting of Vermont feels new to me. I can't recall Roberts setting a romance in the state before, but perhaps she has. The town and the businesses felt very real to me. Would love another book following Miles younger brother a few years down the line. And it was also nice to see Roberts set a book near Baltimore again (though briefly).
Wow. What a fantastic romantic suspense novel by Roberts. It was such a nice slow burn and it had everything. I really loved the characters of Morgan and Miles and both of their respective families. The suspense part was well done with the book following a serial killer hell-bent on murdering women after stealing from them and taking their identities. There’s a lot happening but it works. A wonderful book to read on summer nights.
Full Review:
"Identity" follows bartender Morgan Albright. A former Army brat, she finally feels settled in a suburb near Baltimore. She bought a small house and has a best friend named Nina who moves in with her that helps her house feel complete. When Morgan meets a new man named Luke, she feels intrigued by him, but is not ready to move things much faster than a few dates/hang outs. But things change when Morgan comes home to find Nina murdered, and finds out the man named Luke is not who she thought he was. Left reeling after finding all of her money gone and tons of things taken out in her name, Morgan goes back to her grandmother and mother in Vermont. There she starts to heal and fall for one of her bosses, Miles.
As I said, this was a lovely slow burn. Roberts takes a long time building up everyone from Morgan, Miles, to Luke. Even Nina shines in this.
The plot was really great and I think the flow worked great. The book takes place over a year plus which I applaud. It always used to drive me crazy when romance books had the hero and heroine fall for each other in like a week and then pivot to an epilogue like 3 months later and the heroine is pregnant. It makes sense in terms of what Morgan goes through why this had to be a slower burn romance.
The setting of Vermont feels new to me. I can't recall Roberts setting a romance in the state before, but perhaps she has. The town and the businesses felt very real to me. Would love another book following Miles younger brother a few years down the line. And it was also nice to see Roberts set a book near Baltimore again (though briefly).
April 24, 2023
Review coming soon.
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