[Note from Frolic: Today, we welcome author Catherine Cowles to the site. She’s sharing some must-read romantic suspense. Take it away, Catherine!]
My best friend and I have a running joke. One of us will often say to the other when talking about our favorite recent reads, “What is a love story without a murderer or stalker?” There’s just something about that added bit of mystery and suspense that makes me enjoy a book that much more. It raises the stakes. And there’s the moment when the hero goes absolutely feral because his love is in danger that you can’t beat in any other genre.
I could write a very long love letter to this genre and all of the reasons I love reading and writing it, but instead I thought it might be fun to tell you about some of my favorite books…
The Obsession by Nora Roberts
There’s a reason Nora is the queen. Her stories are always intricate tales with fascinating premises. She was my very first romance novel read and I have loved her ever since. For The Obsession, think serial killers (yes, plural), a mechanic who moonlights as the lead singer of a cover band, and a dog who will steal your heart.
Here With Me by Samantha Young
This book. It ruined me in the best possible way. It is my favorite read of the year so far. A blend of unique characters, enthralling premise, and gorgeous prose. Think a members-only club in the Scottish Highlands, family drama, a broody hero, and a stalker who will have you guessing until the end.
Burying Water by K.A. Tucker
This story was one of the books that made me fall in love with romance. A riveting journey of twists and turns told along two timelines. You’ll be questioning everything until the moment all is revealed. Think a gorgeous setting, a love story for the ages, a cranky yet endearing neighbor, and a twist that will make you gasp.
Ember by Emma Renshaw
Emotion pours out of all of Emma’s stories. She has a gift with taking you on a roller-coaster ride with her books. This one had me shedding tears before the prologue was even over. Think small-town setting, pro baseball player hero, and a completely unique and riveting premise for a series.
Where the Blame Lies by Mia Sheridan
It is hard for me to find the words to describe my love for this book. It’s a dark and painful read at times, but there is such hope in its pages. The message it delivered stayed with me long after The End. Think a heroine overcoming a brutal kidnapping, a police officer determined to protect her, and twists that will have your jaw dropping.
Fighting Temptation by K.C. Lynn
This book was one of the first indie romances I ever read. I promptly inhaled the entirety of K.C.’s backlist. Her writing is like double chocolate brownies, you won’t stop at one, you’ll eat the whole batch. Think the ultimate friends-to-lovers journey, a bad boy hero, and a group of friends you’ll want for your own.
Securing Zoey by Susan Stoker
I can’t have a list of suspenseful romance favorites without Susan. She is the queen of military and first responder romantic suspense. She weaves tales that keep you on the edge of your seat and rooting so hard for the couple’s happily ever after. Think an Alaska setting, a plane crash, and a struggle to survive.
Have space for one more book on your TBR? How about one of mine?
Reckless Refuge by Catherine Cowles
This story came to me after reading an article about treating psychopathy in young people. The idea resulted in my favorite prologue I’ve ever written and the most unique backstory for a character. Think a private island off the coast of the Pacific Northwest, a woman on the run, an age-gap romance, and a stalker who leaves bodies in their wake.
Happy Reading!
About the Author:
Writer of words. Drinker of Diet Cokes. Lover of all things cute and furry, especially her dog. Catherine has had her nose in a book since the time she could read and finally decided to write down some of her own stories. When she’s not writing she can be found exploring her home state of Oregon, listening to true crime podcasts, or searching for her next book boyfriend.
