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Melinda Leigh
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Cross Her Heart (Bree Taggert Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Melinda Leigh (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 53,318 ratings
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A homicide detective’s violent family history repeats itself in #1 Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh’s novel of murder, secrets, and retribution.

For more than twenty-five years, Philadelphia homicide detective Bree Taggert has tucked away the nightmarish childhood memories of her parents’ murder-suicide…Until her younger sister, Erin, is killed in a crime that echoes that tragic night: innocent witnesses and a stormy marriage that ended in gunfire. There’s just one chilling difference. Erin’s husband, Justin, has vanished.

Bree knows how explosive the line between love and hate can be, yet the evidence against her troubled brother-in-law isn’t adding up. Teaming up with Justin’s old friend, former sheriff’s investigator and K-9 handler Matt Flynn, Bree vows to uncover the secrets of her sister’s life and death, as she promised Erin’s children. But as her investigation unfolds, the danger hits close to home. Once again, Bree’s family is caught in a death grip. And this time, it could be fatal for her.

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  1. Book 1 of 10
    Bree Taggert
  2. Print length
    333 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publisher
    Montlake
  5. Publication date
    March 17, 2020
  6. File size
    4.4 MB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
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  10. See all details
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Bree Taggert Book 1 - Book 10
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  1. “Here’s a pro tip from someone who’s been dragged out of bed at all hours for the past thirty years. A little lipstick makes you look like you have your shit together even when you’re so tired you can barely spell your own name.”
    Highlighted by 297 Kindle readers
  2. “My childhood isn’t my fault.” Bree tapped her phone screen and stared at the lack of notifications. “But the decisions I’ve made since reaching adulthood are one hundred percent my responsibility.”
    Highlighted by 279 Kindle readers
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Editorial Reviews

Review

“This romantic suspense tale thrusts readers into the action, with one heart-racing, adrenaline-filled scene after another. Leigh’s (Morgan Dane series) vulnerable yet strong lead characters add depth to an exciting new series.” —Library Journal

“Leigh, (Whisper of Bones, 2019, etc.) has a genuine talent for creating believable, appealing characters and realistic dialogue…With a clear setup for future adventures, this novel promises to become a likable series.” —Kirkus Reviews

“From the first page in this gripping mystery, we are hooked…Start with Cross Her Heart, and keep reading as Leigh produces more installments of her series. You won’t regret it.” —Bookreporter

“Cross Her Heart by Melinda Leigh is action-packed. The mystery is full of twists and turns that leave the reader on the edge of their seat.” —Crimespree Magazine

“A gripping thriller, Cross Her Heart is fast paced and riveting, with the complex and compelling lead homicide detective, Bree Taggert. The first in a destined to be a hit series.” —Karin Slaughter, international bestselling author

“Melinda Leigh has topped herself—and goes to the top of my must-read author list. Cross Her Heart is everything I love in a thriller, and Bree Taggert is everything I love in a heroine. READ THIS BOOK. You won’t be able to put it down.” —Allison Brennan, New York Times bestselling author of The Third to Die

“Masterful! Melinda Leigh knows just how to blend poignant family drama with edge-of-your-seat suspense. As the heroine of this thrilling new series, Bree Taggert will capture your heart.” —Laura Griffin, New York Times bestselling author

About the Author

#1 Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker. After joining Romance Writers of America, she decided writing was more fun than analyzing financial statements. Melinda’s debut novel, She Can Run, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers. She’s also garnered Golden Leaf and Silver Falchion Awards, along with two nominations for a RITA and three Daphne du Maurier Awards. Her other novels include She Can Tell, She Can Scream, She Can Hide, She Can Kill, Midnight Exposure, Midnight Sacrifice, Midnight Betrayal, Midnight Obsession, Hour of Need, Minutes to Kill, Seconds to Live, Say You’re Sorry, Her Last Goodbye, Bones Don’t Lie, What I’ve Done, Secrets Never Die, and Save Your Breath. She holds a second-degree black belt in Kenpo karate, has taught women’s self-defense, and lives in a messy house with her family and a small herd of rescue pets. For more information, visit www.melindaleigh.com.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07TMN6WR7
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Montlake (March 17, 2020)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ March 17, 2020
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 4.4 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 333 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 53,318 ratings

About the author

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Melinda Leigh

Melinda Leigh

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#1 Amazon Charts and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Melinda Leigh has sold over 15 million books. As a fully recovered banker and a life-long lover of books, she started writing as a way to preserve her sanity while raising her kids. Melinda's debut novel, SHE CAN RUN, was an International Thriller Award finalist. Since then, she has garnered numerous writing accolades, including two RITA® Award nominations and an induction into the NJ Romance Writers Hall of Fame.

Melinda holds a 2nd degree belt in Kenpo Karate. She's dabbled in Arnis stick fighting, studied Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and taught women's self-defense. She lives near the beach with her family and two spoiled rescue dogs. With such a pleasant life, she has no explanation for the sometimes dark nature of her imagination.

Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
53,318 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book easy to read and enjoyable. They enjoy the interesting plot with unexpected twists and a well-crafted mystery. The characters are relatable and the author effectively introduces and develops them. The story is heartfelt, intense, and packed with human emotion. Readers appreciate the steady pacing and consistent development in the investigation. The heroine is described as strong, smart, and courageous. Overall, customers find the book an engaging crime story that keeps their attention throughout.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Select to learn more
ReadabilityStorylineCharacter developmentEmotionPacingStrengthCrime storyDifficulty to put down
789 customers mention "Readability"769 positive20 negative

Customers enjoy the book. They find it well-written and an entertaining introduction to the series.

"...CROSS HER HEART is an amazing introduction to the new series by Melinda Leigh that is full of twists and turns that will leave the reader on the..." Read more

"...I was pleasantly surprised by the killer’s reveal. All in all, a quick, good read." Read more

"...The story twists and turns, so you won't know who did it. The book is written well and flows smoothly; there are no frustrating spelling or grammar..." Read more

"...Melinda Leigh is now a seasoned author with loads of talent...." Read more

615 customers mention "Storyline"585 positive30 negative

Customers enjoy the storyline. They find the characters likable, the mystery well-done, and the twists unexpected. The book is described as an engaging thriller that keeps them guessing until the end. Readers appreciate the wide range of topics covered in the story and the well-written details.

"...It is full of captivating characters, a mystery that will leave you guessing and a potential romance between Bree and Matt that will keep the reader..." Read more

"...Although the start of a series there’s no cliffhanger ending, everything wraps up nicely with clear paths for character growth if one wants to keep..." Read more

"After a tragedy, Bree’s life is upended. The story twists and turns, so you won't know who did it...." Read more

"...and develops the primary characters, fostering anticipation for the subsequent installment...." Read more

343 customers mention "Character development"335 positive8 negative

Customers enjoy the characters. They find the female protagonist awesome and the supporting cast adequate, if not unique or interesting.

"...It is full of captivating characters, a mystery that will leave you guessing and a potential romance between Bree and Matt that will keep the reader..." Read more

"...’s no cliffhanger ending, everything wraps up nicely with clear paths for character growth if one wants to keep going in the series...." Read more

"...The author effectively introduces and develops the primary characters, fostering anticipation for the subsequent installment...." Read more

"I really enjoyed this book! The characters are flawed & realistic. The situations are also realistic, not over the top. Highly recommend!..." Read more

85 customers mention "Emotion"82 positive3 negative

Customers find the book engaging and emotional. They describe it as a heartfelt drama with relatable characters. The story has many emotions, including grief, sadness, and denial. Readers enjoy the intense and suspenseful storyline.

"...I love, love, love Bree. She’s strong, relatable, and quite determined...." Read more

"...Has suspense, mystery, emotions, and you can feel the connection with Bree and Matt. Excited for the next...." Read more

"...I thought the mystery and emotions were portrayed very well, as I even cried during a few moments as well. I'm glad everything was solved in the end...." Read more

"Sad yet so interesting that I couldn't wait to read again and I was completely surprised at the outcome. I look forward to learning more about Bree." Read more

81 customers mention "Pacing"69 positive12 negative

Customers enjoy the book's pacing. They find it fast-paced and fun throughout, with a steady pace of development. The book flows smoothly and is easy to read. It sets up the series and provides background information.

"...The book is written well and flows smoothly; there are no frustrating spelling or grammar distractions...." Read more

"Good mystery, character introduction and development, nice wrap up...." Read more

"...There was enough action and consistent development in the investigation to firmly keep my attention and the family dynamic with Bree, her family..." Read more

"...I certainly do like fast paced adventures and fun throughout. So if sounds to me that I do like this book...." Read more

49 customers mention "Strength"49 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the strong, smart, and courageous women in this book. They find the story well-crafted with twists and turns. The characters are well-developed and set a great foundation for future books. The story is an embodiment of rising above adversity, family, love, and joy.

"...I love, love, love Bree. She’s strong, relatable, and quite determined...." Read more

"I enjoy stories with a strong female lead. The writing was descriptive and keeps you interested in the story line. Looking forward to Book 2." Read more

"...from the Philadelphia police force were great, establishing a great foundation and promise for future books...." Read more

"...When there is a strong FMC and a supportive MMC that has her back it’s 😘...." Read more

30 customers mention "Crime story"26 positive4 negative

Customers enjoy the book. They find it an engaging crime-solving story with a strong female protagonist and wise law enforcement. The book explores how Bree Taggert, a police officer, copes with past demons and eventually solves the mystery. Readers feel involved in solving the crime through different perspectives. Overall, it's a good new police procedural series that includes drama and issues from abuse.

"...They are complex, multidimensional, and relatable...." Read more

"...is an Incredible, wonderful book with honest relationships, lots of life’s dilemmas and a fantastic glimpse of real life!! Enjoy!!!" Read more

"4.5 stars. A good new police procedural series with an awesome female protagonist...." Read more

"...Now to the story: This is a police procedural with well liked characters and an easily followed plot. The killer was a surprise." Read more

27 customers mention "Difficulty to put down"21 positive6 negative

Customers find the book engaging and hard to put down. They mention it's an excellent story with action and are hooked from the start.

"Author Melinda Leigh provided a a crime riddled story that was hard to pit down. I am ready to move on to her book." Read more

"...with an exciting storyline, plenty of action and definitely a book you can’t put down...." Read more

"...This story captured my interest and it was hard to put it down. The characters were spot on in actions and growth. Please read this book...." Read more

"...huge salon for s little town where people have farms, the setting made it hard to follow that particular piece, but only that part...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Love2read
    5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect introduction into a new series by one of my favorite authors
    Reviewed in the United States on May 11, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    For Detective Bree Taggert, her life growing up was been rough as her parents’ deaths in a murder-suicide left a lasting impact on her and her two siblings. Now an adult, she finds herself back Grey’s Hollow and the memories there. Finding out her sister was murdered, her estranged husband missing, and considered a person of interest has Bree joining forces wit former deputy Matt Flynn to get to the bottom of the mystery. But as their investigation unfolds, Bree and Matt discover that danger lurks closer than they think as they close in on the murderer and this time the danger hits closer to home for Bree as her family is caught in the crosshairs of a dangerous individual determined to close all loose ends regardless the cost.

    CROSS HER HEART is an amazing introduction to the new series by Melinda Leigh that is full of twists and turns that will leave the reader on the edge of their seat right up till the last page is turned. It is full of captivating characters, a mystery that will leave you guessing and a potential romance between Bree and Matt that will keep the reader glued to the pages. The story just flows smoothly and kept me glued to the pages, wondering what would happen next. I didn’t know who the bad guy was until almost to the end and was shocked by it. The twists and turns the author throws in the story were perfect and had me hanging on the edge wondering what would happen next.

    Meet Philadelphia detective Bree Taggert. She left Grey’s Hollow after her parent’s murder-suicide as a child and hasn’t been back in years. Now with a desperate call from her sister Erin, Bree is back and determined to find her sister’s killer. I love, love, love Bree. She’s strong, relatable, and quite determined. Her vulnerabilities are mentioned several times and as the reader gets to know more about Bree and her family, you can’t help but find yourself sympathizing and rooting for them all. The characters are where the author shines the most in my opinion. Ms. Leigh creates strong characters who can stand on their own but also are able to accept a helping hand as well. They are complex, multidimensional, and relatable. I found all the main players in this first book of Bree’s series wonderful and unique in their own way.

    CROSS HER HEART is a perfect introduction to the new series by Melinda Leigh and captured my interest right off the bat. I could not put this book down and can not wait for book two to get here. I see a winner in her new series and look forward to seeing where the author goes with this one. If you enjoyed past series like Morgan Dane or her Widow’s Island series she cowrites with Kendra Elliott, then you will definitely have to check CROSS HER HEART out and settle in, the story will leave you breathless till the very end.

    This is an objective review and not an endorsement
    4 people found this helpful
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  • Jessica Jesinghaus, Author of Mirror Mirror
    4.0 out of 5 stars Mystery-thriller… lite
    Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    This was a lovely introduction to the Bree Taggert series. Not quite a cozy mystery, but not heavy on scary thrills either. Although the start of a series there’s no cliffhanger ending, everything wraps up nicely with clear paths for character growth if one wants to keep going in the series. I was pleasantly surprised by the killer’s reveal. All in all, a quick, good read.
    Helpful
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  • lowatergang
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read
    Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    After a tragedy, Bree’s life is upended. The story twists and turns, so you won't know who did it. The book is written well and flows smoothly; there are no frustrating spelling or grammar distractions.

    This is my first book by this author; I will read the rest of this series and any other books written by Melinda Leigh.
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  • Tom McGee
    5.0 out of 5 stars Melinda Leigh Hit the Mark Again with this Stellar Murder Mystery! Enjoy!
    Reviewed in the United States on December 24, 2020
    Verified Purchase
    I have read and reviewed so many books over the past 12 years that I have forgotten about some of the great authors I have read over time. Recently, I came across a review of one of Melinda Leigh’s books and quickly added her to my authors to follow on Amazon.com after I recalled how much I enjoyed her earlier murder mystery novels.

    Cross Her Heart is the first in a series of Bree Taggert novels. When the ureka light went on in my head, I quickly bought the Kindle version of this book. It grabbed my attention and I could not put it down until wee hours of the morning and could hardly wait to finish it the next day.

    In 1993, in Gray’s Hollow, New York when Bree was just 8 years, and her baby brother, Adam was still in his crib, while her little sister, Erin was just 4, her abusive father was having a knock down drag out fight with her mother that scared her so much to see the gun pointed at her mothers head that she took the baby and Erin out of the house in the dead of winter and hid under the steps for protection and heard the shot that killed her mother then the shotgun that killed her father.

    The kind Sheriff, Bob, discovered and rescued them from freezing hiding place, warmed them up and made them safe.

    That kindness and protection impacted Bree’s life and she eventually became a homicide detective in Northern Pennsylvania where she was raise by her cousin while her siblings remained in Grey’s Hollow where they were raised separately by their grandmother.

    Adam grew up to be a famous artist, yet flawed person who had lots of money, but spent his time withdrawn within his dark art. His sister, Erin, loved her job as a hair stylist, but would have found it hard to survive without Adam’s help. He bought the house and paid the taxes on property that she and her two children, from the sociopathic and abusive father of Luke and Kayla lived in.

    Bree requested emergency leave and came as fast as she could when Erin left her a message telling her that she was in trouble and needed her help. Before she could get there Erin was murdered and her estranged husband, Justin was missing.

    Three years earlier Matthew Flynn and his dog, Brody while working a K-9 of the Grey’s Hollow Sheriff’s Department team received career ending wounds by friendly fire.

    Matt was the best man at Erin and Justin’s wedding. He teamed up with Bree’s in an attempt to find Justin and find out who killed Erin.

    Grey’s Hollow Chief Deputy Todd Harvey knew the reputation of both Matt and Bree and allowed them to work with him unofficially as long as they remained incognito and did not speak to the press. It was the least he could do considering he was the officer who shot Matt and ended his career a few years earlier.

    Initially, Justin was the only suspect since it was his gun that shot and killed Erin; however, knowing Justin since they were kids, Matt was convinced that Justin loved Erin and would never cause her harm.

    Deputy Sheriff Harvey, Matt, and Bree worked hard and identified numerous suspects as they searched for clues and for Justin until they solved the case.

    Melinda Leigh is now a seasoned author with loads of talent. I enjoyed this book so much that I have already purchased and am reading the second in this series.

    I recommend this book to family, friends, and others who enjoy best selling murder mysteries by truly deserving authors.

    Enjoy!
    18 people found this helpful
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  • Koumamo Piebo
    4.0 out of 5 stars Good introduction
    Reviewed in the United States on February 19, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    “Cross Her Heart” serves as an exceptional introductory novella for those unfamiliar with the series. The author effectively introduces and develops the primary characters, fostering anticipation for the subsequent installment. Personally, I found the inclusion of the killer while maintaining their identity unknown until Bree meticulously unraveled the clue to be an effective strategy. This approach enhanced my immersion in the narrative, a sensation I had been eagerly seeking.
    Helpful
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  • Isitsummeryet
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love the characters!
    Reviewed in the United States on February 9, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I really enjoyed this book! The characters are flawed & realistic. The situations are also realistic, not over the top. Highly recommend! I will be reading the entire series!
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  • Jill
    5.0 out of 5 stars Enjoyable read!
    Reviewed in the United States on January 30, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I enjoy stories with a strong female lead. The writing was descriptive and keeps you interested in the story line. Looking forward to Book 2.
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  • Tammy Webb
    3.0 out of 5 stars Kinda slow
    Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    I guess there just wasn't enough of a plot for me. I felt the book was kind of slow moving. Overall it was a good read.
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Top reviews from other countries

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  • Cliente de Amazon
    5.0 out of 5 stars Léanlo!
    Reviewed in Mexico on March 2, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Muy bueno
    Report
  • KatD
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, fast read
    Reviewed in Canada on March 7, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Great mystery.with suspense, tender moments, a hint of romance, and unpredictable. I read it in a few days rather than slowly over 3 weeks. .Can't wait to start book 2!
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  • sandeep
    5.0 out of 5 stars what a fantastic read!!
    Reviewed in India on October 14, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Murder
    Mystery
    Family
    Secrets
    Past traumas
    A nailbiting finish
    And a happy ending
    This novel by Melinda Leigh has it all

    go for it?
    Report
  • Mike John Coombs
    5.0 out of 5 stars Loved this book
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 16, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Well drawn plausible characters play out a dramatic and interesting plot against a background family tragedy. Not at all my usual genre but a thoroughly enjoyable and refreshing read. Will definitely read more of the series.
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  • Sonja Corterier
    5.0 out of 5 stars Its a solid book
    Reviewed in Germany on July 5, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    Likable characters with edges & depth. Solid plot. Happy to know it's a series. The narration is also excellently done
    Report

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