Review of “Hidden Nature” by Nora Roberts
Happy Publication Day to Nora Roberts and her latest spellbinding novel, “Hidden Nature”! Ever since I picked up my first Roberts book years ago, I’ve been captivated by her knack for weaving compelling tales that blend suspense, romance, and rich character development. When I discovered that her latest protagonist, Sloan Cooper, is a Natural Resources police officer caught in a web of mystery and danger, I couldn’t resist diving into this exhilarating journey.
The story plunges us into the vibrant backdrop of Western Maryland, where we meet Sloan, fresh from a victorious operation with her partner. But fate takes a dark turn when she unwittingly stumbles into a convenience store robbery on her way home. The intensity escalates as she finds herself in a fight for survival, ultimately leading to a transformative recovery period filled with heart and introspection at her parents’ peaceful home in Heron’s Rest.
One of the standout aspects of “Hidden Nature” is Roberts’ ability to create rich, relatable characters. Sloan’s fierce independence and determination really struck a chord with me; she’s not just facing physical recovery but a personal journey of resilience as she navigates the trauma of her experience. Together with her spirited sister Drea and their supportive parents, Elsie and Dean, the Cooper family radiates warmth and strength, making them feel like old friends. The introduction of her new neighbors, Nash and Theo Littlefield, adds a delightful complexity to the narrative. As Nash assists Sloan, their budding partnership evolves into a compelling exploration of shared passions—especially in the realm of truth-seeking.
Roberts expertly captures the tension that unfolds when a mysterious woman goes missing, sending Sloan back into investigator mode. I appreciated the slow build of the first 25% of the book; while it sets up a solid foundation, the plot quickly morphs into a gripping thriller that kept me on edge. Yet, I felt there was such a richness in Sloan’s day-to-day life that, at times, the investigation felt overshadowed, longing for a deeper delve into her detective skills.
What truly elevated my listening experience was January Lavoy’s exceptional narration. Her ability to infuse each character with emotional depth transported me right into the heart of the story. Listening to her bring Sloan’s tenacity and vulnerability to life made the pages practically flutter with energy.
Though some elements of the plot felt slightly unbalanced and the resolution came a bit too abruptly for my liking, the emotional weight of the narrative left me reflecting long after the final chapter. The themes of strong, independent women and the significance of found family resonate strongly, making “Hidden Nature” not just a romantic thriller but a heartfelt journey of healing and discovery.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend “Hidden Nature,” particularly in its audiobook format for those who relish immersive storytelling. This novel is perfect for readers who adore romantic mysteries infused with suspense and emotional depth. Whether you’re a long-time Nora Roberts fan or someone new to her work, this book will captivate you, leaving you both curious and fulfilled. Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest opinion. Happy reading!