Typically I love Nora Roberts books and I was excited to read this one. While I do think this is a great book that will appeal to many readers I struggled through this one. I do think it has a unique concept and I see the appeal to the story but for some reason I just didn't really connect with it and I don't quite know why. The characters are wonderful and I especially loved Lucy. I also loved that Thea's adult profession is a video game designer! How cool. This book delivers on suspense and has a completely unhinged and terrifying villain. I will say the love interest somewhat surprised me but in a good way as I had suspected it may be someone else but I'm happy with how it turned out.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Nora Roberts for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I can always expect a thrill ride with a Nora Roberts book!! This one didn't fail me there!! What a page-turner!! Young Thea and her younger brother Rem loose their parents> They are murdered and young Thea is witness to it all, even though she is miles away with her brother for the summer at their favorite place! Grammie's in Kentucky! She watches them die and sees the man responsible, Riggs. She is able to led the police to him where he is captured and sent to prison. So begins the mind games between Thea and Riggs. For one it is a gift, for the other it is a curse, but they play the game over the years, until the final round, where only one can win! There are many turns and twists over the years, but the ending explodes with a bang. Well worth the time and highly recommend!!!

Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reader copy of this book.

This is my first Nora Roberts book, but after reading it, I can see why she is a household name. A little suspense, a little romance, and a strong cast of characters are at the heart of this novel. It’s hard to imagine that a book that starts with a gruesome double murder ends up evolving into a quaint love story set in Appalachia, but that’s exactly what happens in Mind Games. Add to that a main character who is able to see into others’ minds, and you’ve got yourself a pretty unique story.

I really enjoyed this book and found the story to be quick moving and engaging, with likable characters and a really strong family dynamic. Even though this was my first Nora Roberts book, I highly doubt it will be my last.

Ms Roberts never fails to meet my expectations, but, this one exceeds them! I wasn’t sure how I was going to like it considering the tragedy that is the basis of the story. Thea and Rem were a brother and sister who became closer due to the circumstances of having to move in with their Grammie (who they loved and was their champion and role model). Thea and Grammie had a lot in common with a lot of their female ancestors, even though it made some people uncomfortable and unbelievable. Thea had trouble trusting people and when her teenage crush moved in next door, she was both thrilled and scared. Ty had his own issues with trusting people, especially women. Will they be able to get over their issues? Hiw will the past affect their future? This was a page turner, couldn’t wait to see how it worked out but didn’t want it to end. A must read!

The first Nora Roberts book I ever read was "The Reef." I was home with the flu in high school, and my mom's best friend bought it for me to read. I didn't become a huge Nora Roberts fan until I graduated college; however, once I did I started to literally mark released on my calendar. May is always Nora Roberts month for me, the same as every year, I could not wait for "Mind Games" to be released this May. That is why I was super excited to get a chance to read this one early.

I can’t think of a Nora Roberts book that I haven’t enjoyed from beginning to end. This book was no exception. The entire storyline was just amazing. Thea actually has my husband’s dream job. You can tell that there was a huge amount of research done to get it right.

I have read nearly all of Nora Roberts’ books (I’m still working on the ones published in the 80s), and I can honestly say that this is the first one that actually made me cry. All in all, this was an amazing book, which is what I expected. I recommend it to all Suspense readers, regardless of it they like Romantic Suspense or not.

**A received an advanced reader copy for my honest review**

As one of my favorite authors I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I could read her new upcoming book from NetGalley. By the end of the first chapter, I was hooked. Ms. Roberts books that have a psychic component I always love. The book has it all with characters that feel so real I couldn't stop reading. I had to know what happens next, the next page, the next chapter. Truly one book that defines the essence of Ms. Roberts as a great romantic suspense writer. If you haven't read Ms. Roberts this is a great place to start. I want to thank NetGalley for allowing me to read this digital galley. I received a copy of this book in return for an unbiased review. My opinion is my own and not influenced by anyone.

Imagine seeing into the mind of a killer, knowing his every move and helpless to prevent a murder? Unless ... you can. The premise of Mind Games lives up to its title!

Nora Roberts does it again with vivid characters who are vulnerable yet strong, broken yet resilient, revengeful yet tempered, and solid in their love of family. The killer is described pathetically, but his unhinged mind is devious, calculating and power hungry.

The paranormal theme is pretty cool, but my absolute favorite part is the tie-in to Thea's career and the world building that becomes both an enticement and trap for the killer.

Thea's close relationship with her grandmother Lucy and brother Rem, and the easy way they both tease and yet care deeply for each other made me misty-eyed especially after the horrific losses they experienced. The close-knit farm community also is such an idyllic setting, perfect for the healing the family needs. Side characters come and go, but they also help reveal the gift that Thea wields delicately and protectively.

Of course, I love that there's animals galore -- dogs, chickens, cows and even goats! And, a love interest who (squeeeal!) embodies every teenage girl's dream come to life.

The dark undertone of the killer lurking close by always haunts the pages, but just how Thea (well, NR's brilliant mind) conjures the "trap" is wicked good.

An entertaining read I highly recommend, high five! Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC!

Nora Roberts has created a compelling page turner in Mind Games.

Its heroine, Thea, is a powerful psychic, capable of reading minds and feelings, seeing into both the past and future, and influencing others' actions. Thea comes into her full powers when her mother and father are murdered. She sees the event as it happens. By visualizing the killer and tracking his movements, she helps the police arrest him. This pivotal and traumatic event results in a psychic connection with the killer who also possesses strong psychic abilities. While Thea uses her gift to help, the killer has abused his gift to manipulate and defile others.

While a story about a link between an innocent and a murderer seems very dark, Mind Games has lots of uplifting moments. Set in a small Appalachian town, it centers around family, friendship and community and the importance of good food and everyday celebrations. We see Thea grow up and use her creative story telling abilities to become a successful game designer.

The novel includes some traditional Roberts plot points, including the brave young girl who is instrumental in solving a crime, the loving grandmother figure, the honest and upright police. These tropes don't feel tired or repetitive; Roberts brings a fresh take to Mind Games.

It's easy to like Thea; you are routing for her throughout the book. You empathize with her fear of sharing her abilities and being mocked or criticized by others, as well as her hesitance to open herself up and make herself vulnerable by helping to solve crimes.

I was unable to put this book down. The plot really gripped me.

Special thanks to the author, publisher, and netgalley.com for an advance copy. This is an honest review.

Having read only Nora Roberts' last (fantasy) trilogy and the first book of her new trilogy, I wasn't sure what to expect of her new standalone. So I was surprised to find a unique combination of an idyllic rural setting and intense trauma that kept me reading compulsively to the end.

Thea and Rem are 12 and 10 when their lives change forever. Although they love spending two weeks each summer with their grandmother in rural Kentucky, they find themselves moving there permanently when their parents die tragically at the hands of a crazed 18-year-old man. Thea suddenly discovers that she is able to see into the murderer's mind and to give the police enough detailed information to apprehend him quickly and send him to a maximum security prison for the rest of his life. But that's just the beginning of the story. The murderer is also able to see into Thea's mind, and they become locked in a mental struggle to defeat each other that physically drains both.

I admire the way the author follows the siblings through college, into their careers, and even into romantic connections. The way that Thea engages the killer is fascinating and sometimes difficult to read--a fierce good vs. evil battle. But it is also the engaging secondary characters that make this a memorable read. Lucy, who shares Thea's "talent" to a lesser degree, is the ultimate nurturing grandmother. Rem develops into a lively, supportive brother, and Ty, a former rock star, and his adorable young son make all of their lives richer. And who doesn't love a huge dog who loves everyone back. My only quibble is that I would have liked more development of Ty's relationship with Thea to lend authenticity to events late in the book.

My thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.

Mind Games is a typical Nora Roberts book - and by typical I mean, it's a gripping read with engaging characters that you want to have a good outcome, normally has a bad guy you want to get his, and a plot that delivers. Every. Single. Time. In other words, it's a no-brainer to buy and enjoy!

A young Thea and her family go visit her grandma in KY every summer and Thea and her brother stay for two weeks to spend time with her. This year promises to be the best time ever and it delivers on that until her parents are brutally murdered, with Thea seeing it happen in a nightmare vision.

Thea is able to identify the killer and he is in jail, but the killer has the same ability to have visions that Thea and her Grammie have, and he goes into Thea's mind trying to wreak havoc and vengance.

The novel has a pace that slowly builds, both the characters and the plot, and kept me hooked the entire time. Throw in a handsome and interesting man, terrific secondary characters and you have a another winner.

I always look forward to every Nora Roberts book because I know I won't be disappointed. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC for an honest opinion. All views are my own.

“Mind Games” by Nora Roberts is a delightful story and a fantastic thriller, as is every one of Ms. Roberts stand alone books. I am saying up front that I am a devoted fan and have read all her books. The wonderful part of this book is that we get to follow the main character through decades and become intimately involved with her, all of her family and especially her sensational grandmother. Without giving too much away, the story is about a young woman with a highly developed gift of sight and her connection to an evil serial killer. The women in the book are strong, smart and admirable and the background story & cast of supporting characters unique. This is not your average suspense thriller and I highly recommend this to anyone who loves this genre!

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Nora Roberts is my go-to author. When I have had a run of so-so books I know I can pick up one of her books and I’ll have a pleasant read. It’s just like being wrapped in a hug by a fireplace. Soothing and comfortable!!
Mind Games is another beautiful story. Set in the mountains of Kentucky, this novel brings a touch of magic to America’s Appalachian mountains. Thea and Rem are left orphaned and being raised by their Grammie Lucy after the murder of their parents. Somehow Nora Roberts takes a difficult subject and blends it masterfully with family bonds and love.
Trigger warnings for animal cruelty, Murder. Discussion of suicide.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The perfect blend of mystery and romance with all of the warm, cozy feels of home and family! This wasn't like Nora's typical stand-alone novels. More like a cross between her SA mysteries and her fantasy book sets. I loved it even more for that and this book had it all! The scenic beauty of Kentucky, the Southern atmosphere filled with love, togetherness and family, the perfect cast of loveable characters, and the FOOD! My goodness, I just wanted to crawl inside the book and eat all of it. Everything was so vivid! The pacing was a little slow, but necessary, I think, because it added so much more depth to the story and played on my emotions. I found myself choked up quite a few times. I really loved this book and highly recommend it! And as always, look forward to whatever Roberts comes up with next.

Thank you to the author, St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for granting me early access in exchange for my honest review!

Huge Nora Roberts fan!! I have read most of her books and love most of them! Mind Games is no different. I LOVED all of the characters of this book. It had a great story with good suspense. I was a bit surprised with the climax of the story… it was not what I expected but fit the book perfectly! A bit of romance in the story but not too much. Like all Nora Roberts books, she gives enough details that you can imagine exactly what is going on, from the setting and environment to what people “look” like.

Oh my! It's tough to let go of a book I really like. I'll start to drag it out somewhere around 80%. I'll distract myself with other things, all to avoid ending the read. So - my floors are vacuumed, the muffins are in the freezer, the beef stew is done. In its way, sadly so is the book.
I've been a big fan of the author for many decades (I've got many decades under my belt). This is one of her lovely cross-over books. Romance, some of what we consider magic or at least not ordinary talent, bad guys, and of course the happily ever after.
Wonderful.

I just knoooow the critics are going to come for this book and say that it's a classic Nora Roberts standalone (derogatory) but I won't stand for that slander. What I love about Nora's longer standalone is that you get the JD Robb-style dialogue alongside the classic romance, typically centered around family dynamics spanning generations. My anxious little brain loves knowing exactly what I'm going to to get, and for the first time in many years, I was WRONG (spoilers below). Continuing to be one of Nora's biggest fans, and I especially enjoyed how much time we got with our MC in this one – it was really satisfying to get to see her grow up.

At the very beginning of the book, they mention Will, the Sheriff's son, doing some chores around the farm. I was like there it is! Her future partner! Maybe she'll rebel and she won't want to settle down at home, or maybe they're going to have some big third act breakup, but that's definitely going to be him because there's his intro. But then! THEN! No. It's the rock star. Which also feels pretty standard for a Nora Roberts book, but she got me. I thought for sure it was going to be small town Sheriff's son and a full circle.

As usual, Nora does not disappoint. This book is unlike her usual, and I loved it. There was so much heartbreak and tears in the beginning. But dang, I didn't see how she would end these mind games, and I kept turning the page in anticipation.

Thank you St.Martin's Press, for the advanced copy.

I was excited to snag this Nora Roberts copy of “Mind Games”! As per Nora Roberts usual, this is another great read with a well thought out approach to this plot. This book is suspenseful, this book has tragedy, this book has love, this book has supernatural abilities. It’s got it all. The character development is on point. There were times I felt Thea’s emotion and worry. And let’s not even mention the anger I felt towards a fictional inmate.
This would make an excellent book club pick.

Nora Roberts has outdone herself with this newest book. All the feels are here and I admit, I cried, laughed and felt the true, bright love wrapped in this story along with a side of her signature magic. A definite “do not miss” read. If you love Ms. Robert’s past books, you will not be disappointed. If this is your first Nora read, an excellent place to start your journey.

I’m going to be completely honest - when I signed up to become an ARC reader, it was solely done because I hoped to be able to be an ARC reader for none other than Nora Roberts. I could go on about how much I love her writing, and she’s a HUGE reason as to why I’m writing my own.

That being said - the other day I received an email about Mind Games being available for a limited number of readers I jumped on it. F A S T.
This book has to be, hands down, my favorite standalone book of hers, and honestly, it’s not enough. I need more. I need to know what happens next. I need to know about the life Thea builds, I need to more about Ty’s career moving forward. I need to know Riggs is done for. I need to know more about Rem. I just need so much more.
I. HAVE. QUESTIONS.
I seriously loved every word of this book.