Silent Shadows

Written by Natalie Walters

Narrated by Morgan Hallett

They’re running from their pasts into an unknown future. But first, they’ll have to survive the present.

Nurse Pecca Gallegos moved to the tiny town of Walton, Georgia, to protect her son and escape the dangerous
lifestyle that once defined her. When a series of strange circumstances evolves into threats, Pecca finds herself confiding
in an unlikely ally—her stubborn patient.

Army veteran Colton Crawford is desperate to recover from the disorder that is ruining his life, and his instincts are
on high alert when threats against his nurse and her son force him to take action. But Colton’s involvement only ramps
up the danger when he uncovers a family secret revealing that whoever is after Pecca is closer—and more deadly—than
they realized.

Welcome back to Walton, Georgia, where everyone knows your name—but no on knows your secret.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 31, 2020
• ISBN: 9781980064268

Reviews for Silent Shadows

[melissa_o-399736 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Harbored Secrets series was definitely my favorite romantic suspense series of 2020 and they just kept getting better and better as I read each one. Hands down, Silent Shadows was my favorite of the three. Because of her own life experience as an Army wife, Natalie Walters knows how to capture the heart of our military heroes in her writing and Colton was a perfect example of that. I was also grateful to get to know more of Pecca and Mateo's story in this book as well. The development of Colton and Pecca's relationship was spot on. It felt very natural to the reader. And the suspense...totally kept me guessing until the end. Although this could be read as a standalone, do yourself a favor and read the rest of the series first if you haven't already. You will appreciate the updates on the couples from the first two books. I also have to mention that I fell in love with the guys of the D-wing. They were a hoot!! They truly captured the rivalry and camaraderie of our veterans! I am looking forward to the first book in her new series releasing next year!

[medwards429 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Thank you in advance to the author, Natalie Walters, and publisher Revell Books for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required. All words are my own.

I am a member of the author’s street team. That does not affect how I rate this book though.

This is the third; and final book in the Harbored Secrets series. While each one can act as a standalone, they are much more enjoyable as a series. And, this one makes me want to revisit Walton, Georgia again from the beginning.

In addition, during the month of March, Revell’s “Beyond the Book” read-a-long was “Living Lies”.

I was introduced to the author in May 2019 when I did a “takeover” tour with JustRead Publicity tours for “Living Lies”.

The following October, I was sent a complimentary copy of the second book “Deadly Deceit”, and enjoyed reading that one. In fact, I hate to admit this (sorry, Natalie), I found Deadly Deceit to be even better than “Living Lies”. In chapter 29 of this book, there is a reference to the case from “Deadly Deceit” as well.

When the opportunity came to be on the street team for this book – I JUMPED at it. Well, not literally, but figuratively; and, no, not because this is a purple book. It’s because I HAD to know how this series was going to end. And, I wanted to know what was going on. I was already invested in it, and had to see it through to the conclusion.

It is kind of sad when a series ends – be it television or even a book series. Depending on how invested you are in the characters, it is like saying goodbye to them. This was no exception. I definitely feel sad about saying goodbye to my friends in Walton, but I can revisit with them someday down the road.

Most debut books have something lacking, but that is to be expected. It is the writer’s debut book after all, so there are bound to be mistakes or hiccups.

Walters’ debut with “Living Lies” set a gold standard for a debut book. Yet, Walters managed to set (and even go above) that standard with each installment.

The duo in this final outing is Nurse Pecca Gallegos and Colton Crawford, an Army Veteran.

Colton is at the “Home for Heroes” to recover from a “movement disorder.” The “Home for Heroes” was a concept during “Living Lies” – where the building played a plot role. It was previously called the Benedict House. One of the first residents to have been there – Miguel – was not seen in this installment. I also don’t recall him from “Deadly Deceit” either.

Lane’s parents were also absent, so we never knew what happened to them, or rather Lane’s father and his senate bid. (I wonder if the writer has something up her sleeve there).

Major characters returning: Sheriff Huggins, his wife Ms. Byrdie, Deputy Charlie Lynch, and of course Lane (with her son –Noah). Former Deputy Ryan Frost and reporter Vivian DeMarco are mentioned and make a surprise return.

From the moment this story begins, it is action packed. By chapter 8, there were bullets flying, literally. And, like Walters’ previous novels, I couldn’t put this one down.

As usual, Walters doesn’t disappoint, and I truly felt she gave this one 1000%. That’s not to say the others were less. Not in anyway. This was just SO good for being the last installment.

There were also more humorous moments throughout this. Where “Living Lies” was serious, “Deadly Deceit” more so; this had a bit more levity. That’s really evidenced with one line on page 286 “whose driver offered a choice hand signal”. I’ll admit, that despite the seriousness of the situation – that line make me laugh out loud.

The characters were wonderfully written! Since Walters already established Lane, Charlie, the Sheriff, and Byrdie – more concentration went to Pecca and Colton, along with the other supporting characters. There was a guy I didn’t trust (or like) from the beginning. I’m wondering if I am alone with this one. But, from the first page he’s introduced – I didn’t like him.

Since both Pecca and Colton were from Texas, and I was born in Texas, I truly enjoyed that nod to my home state. I appreciated the Whataburger reference even more!! And, I’m sadly mourning the fact I haven’t had one in 14½ years.

The plot? Where I thought I almost KNEW where it was going … I was wrong! It was definitely interesting and didn’t lack. The surprise with Pecca’s sister? Pardon the caps … DID NOT SEE THAT COMING!! I was definitely impressed. It had my heart racing a few times. I was relieved that I was wrong in certain areas.

This is an “edge of the seat”, “doesn’t stop” read. The ending? That was definitely a wild ride. The way this was written, I was going through chapter after chapter. It sucked me right in and didn’t let go. I really didn’t want to let go of this one either, and was a bit sad when I reached the end of it.

A perfect balance of romance and suspense. And, although this is a Christian suspense novel, there were modest elements of faith thrown in. It isn’t overwhelming or preachy. There are no hot sex scenes, and no foul language for those looking for cleaner reads. I really did miss those either. The story and the characters are what drew me in.

There were times the Spanish was distracting as I don’t speak or understand it, but it was so minimal that I didn’t mind either taking notes to see what was being said, or guessing.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see Kekoa and Claudia back again in another series. And, for those who don’t know – Natalie Walters has signed another contract with Revell for another series, and dropped a few hints. Check out her Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter (links at the bottom).

Natalie, thank you for allowing me the pleasure and honor of being on your street team!!

[hes7 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Return to Walton, Georgia for more suspense and romance in this third Harbored Secrets novel from Natalie Walters.Nurse Pecca Gallegos hoped to escape the danger of her past, but of course, it cannot be as easy as moving to a new town. Threats push her toward her patient and Army veteran Colton Crawford, which only makes the circumstances more complicated and dangerous as feelings become involved.It is easy to fall in love with Pecca and Colton in Silent Shadows. I enjoyed them individually and together, so I could not help enjoying following them through the twists and turns of this story. They definitely kept me on my figurative toes, and it proved the perfect way to wrap up the series.I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.

[stardust_fiddle · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Despite its pleasant, seemingly innocuous name, Walton, Georgia is not the place to plan your next getaway, especially if you are trying to escape a dangerous past. Just when you thought it was safe…Nurse Pecca Gallegos has fled to Walton to protect her son from her own poor choices in the past, putting distance between them and the danger. Or so she thinks, until a phone call from her brother upends her fragile sense of security and increasingly disturbing things begin happening. Her newest patient, honorably discharged Army veteran Colton Crawford, steps in to help, but neither is prepared for the consequences. Romantic suspense tends to be hit or miss for me. I often find that the romance angle is overdone and overpowers the suspense, which is my favorite part. Thankfully, “Silent Shadows” provides an adequate amount of tension, and I wanted to know what would happen in each new chapter, although I did easily zero in on one of the villains right away. While this is book three in Natalie Walters’ Harbored Secrets series, I did not have any difficulty reading it as a standalone. The patients at Home for Heroes quickly captured my heart, and I appreciated that Walters chose for Colton to be affected by psychogenic movement disorder (PMD) rather than the typical PTSD in order to highlight another challenge that may impact our veterans. Pecca and Colton’s first meeting certainly packed a punch and had me laughing! Throughout the story, however, I found Pecca’s character rather aloof, and I did not feel that I could relate to her; she often seems awkward, and her internal dialogue disrupted the narrative for me. Maceo, on the other hand, was one of my favorite characters, with his natural ability to empathize and make others feel at ease in spite of his young age. I also very much enjoyed Uncle Jack, who in my opinion had the best commentary in this story, telling Colton, “You’re a go-getter, son, but even Lazarus had to die before the Lord could do his work” and “We all die different kinds of deaths, Colt, but they all lead to one truth. Do you trust him enough to bring you back to life?” These are deep facts to ponder when our own lives seem to be going off track and we are faced with trials. We can either try to work things out on our own, or we can turn to the One who already knows the end from the beginning and has a perfect plan for our lives. As Pecca and Colton come to realize, God is sovereign and omniscient, and because nothing is a secret to Him, ultimately He alone is able to keep us safe, even from what lurks in the shadows.I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Just looking at the title and cover of this book, I was convinced that I was in for a treat and I wasn't wrong! Silent Shadows has everything that I love in a story: family bonds, suspense, romance, and laugh-out-loud humor! It also has realistic characters striving to forget their past by working to have a better future. Pecca Gallegos has a past that wasn't always pretty but she is now a loving Christian mother, a wonderful nurse, and she has a great sense of humor! It's no wonder that she immediately captures the attention of Colton Crawford, a new client at the facility where she works. Colton is dealing with a physical problem that is thought to be related to PTSD and he questions why God has allowed this. Is it possible that Pecca and her young son Maceo are what Colton needs? Will he be able to protect them if threats by an unknown person (or persons) turn to violence?Silent Shadows is the third and final book in the Harbored Secrets series and it is a terrific way to say goodbye to the people of Walton, Georgia. Walters uses Pecca's job at the Home for Heroes to remind us that our veterans need love and support as they deal with both physical and emotional issues. Colton's attention to Maceo gives the boy a glimpse of a strong, positive male mentor and the romance between Pecca and Colton simply took my breath away. Best of all, there is a strong faith message woven throughout the story.This Harbored Secrets series will make you glad that you visited Walton, Georgia, and you may feel sad that this is the last book of the series but you definitely won't regret reading Silent Shadows. It is great Christian romantic suspense!This book was provided courtesy of Baker Publishing (Revell), through Interviews & Reviews. I am voluntarily sharing these thoughts.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was a perfect book to read during the pandemic because it was one I could not put down. I loved Pecca and Colton. These were great characters. Both of these characters had some problems that they were working out and end up helping each other to work them out. This story has so many twists and turns. I loved the suspense and there was just a bit of romance to make it interesting. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[becky_l-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

“Pecca Gallegos never thought she’d be turning down a marriage proposal...much less four of them.” So starts Silent Shadows, a romantic suspense by Natalie Walters. #3 in the Harbored Secrets series, Silent Shadows is a stand-alone that I expect to see in my Top Books for 2020 at year’s end.What did I love so much about this book? It seems realistic. I enjoyed Nurse Pecca, who is a physical therapist, working at a home for injured veterans. She seems like an every-day, down-to-earth person, with an unfortunate background.Rising out of that past may be one of the strongest parts of the novel, supporting character Maceo, Pecca’s 7 year- old son, who has a leg prosthetic. Of course, Captain Colton Crawford is a swoony, but broken part of this equation. When he develops a relationship with Maceo, Pecca can’t help but like the Captain, even with his disability. But will he ever stop seeing the future as discarded dreams and instead see unexpected opportunities?There are many secondary threads or characters that strengthen this narrative beautifully. We start with the romance, a possible love triangle, and unknown danger. Now add the secondary storyline of Maceo, plus thickening threads. The danger thread builds nicely. Where is it coming from? Great twists. Another thread is Charlie and Lacy and the coming baby. I love Shirley with her loving, nurturing ways and all the other vets with their love and friendly service competition. One last thread that appealed to me was the realism of the seizures. Not fun. But I could see them in my mind. Good research there. These different story strands tighten the weave of the book until it is a multi-faceted, taut romantic suspense.All in all, I reckon I just loved this book!Quotes:“If you want to win the game, you’ve got to know who you’re playing.”“He had no idea what he did to deserve this or why he was being punished- only if this was his life sentence, he would’ve chosen the alternative.”I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Revell.All opinions are my own, for which I am solely responsible.

[jillrey · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Pecca has had a wild childhood.  After being romanced by and ultimately impregnated by a gang leader, she runs from her past decisions to a small town to start over.  Colton too finds himself in that same small town as he seeks treatment for a movement disorder at the veteran’s facility Pecca works for. A romance begins to blossom, but more importantly Maceo, Pecca’s son, and Colton teach each other that their disabilities don’t hold them back.A story of gangs, violence and love are at the forefront of the suspense within.  This book seeks to read as a standalone, however, I would have loved to see more of Pecca’s past and siblings, as it felt there were still too many shadows (pun intended) to grasp the story as it unraveled.  Regardless, Silent Shadows provoked the senses and brought the excitement all suspense lovers are sure to enjoy.*Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

[jkj94 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

It was okay, the suspense was just not there. I just expected more of romantic type suspense. I found this book to be more romance than any suspense. It seemed to be more about Pecca and Colton’s romantic trysts, which was fine, but I want the suspense and intrigue! Silent Shadows by Natalie Walters is the final installment of this series.I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[kimpotter-309059 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Silent Shadows by Natalie Walters is the third book in her Harbored Secrets series. Nurse Pecca Gallegos moved to Walton, Georgia so that her son would not be influenced by the gang that his father belonged to. Working as a nurse in a home for wounded veterans she meets Army Captain Colton Crawford. When Pecca is targeted Colton becomes her protector. I loved the way all the vets joked with each other. This book was awesome, with just the right amount of humor, suspense and romance. The author was able to reach thru the pages, grab you by the collar and pull you into the story from the start to the finish! Can’t wait for more by Ms. Walters!!I received this book from LibraryThing for my honest review.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Silent Shadows (Harbored Secrets #3)Author: Natalie WaltersPages: 336Year: 2020Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 stars.A must read! Why? The author once again writes a suspense filled tale that focuses on one of the characters readers meet in the first books of the Harbored Secrets series. In Silent Shadows, we get to explore the character of Pecca Gallegos who is a single mom, working as a nurse in Homes for Heroes while raising her son, Maceo. Homes for Heroes is where men and women come who need help before they return to their homes or some other residence. I loved how the author brings veterans from the various branches of the military. They have some fun teasing and outdoing each other no matter the activity. I also enjoyed how each of the various military players came with their nicknames too. They cracked me up and touched my heart at the same time.Pecca is a nurse who is helping an Army Captain learn to overcome a disability and find meaning in life outside of military life. Pecca doesn’t have a pristine background, but a life she has been able to rebuild with the help of God and the friends she has gained in the small town. Pecca isn’t planning on romance being part of her life but when the “cap” comes in as her patient, well anything is bound to happen!However, there is a nefarious person who is seeking to take Pecca down and out permanently! “Cap” while struggling to live with a disability, vows to protect Pecca. But he doubts his ability, and he wonders why God has allowed this to happen. There is faith, romance, action, danger and more in this book, and I hope you read not just this story but the other two books in the series titled, Living Lies and Deadly Deceit.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is the third book in this series, and they can each be read alone, but are each equally good.I loved the compassion shown here to our fellow man, and the theme continues right to the end.There were a lot of surprises that unfold with this story, and most I never saw coming, the story kept my attention all the way through. There is even a bit of sweet romance, and we meet some awesome veterans here, and enjoyed the competition between the different branches of the service.With darling children, football and birthday parties, we are quickly drawn into the everyday life of the folks in Walton Georgia, but don't get too comfortable, you will soon be ducking bullets, and will be absorbed in this story and not see the ending!I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

[tcjrogers · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Silent Shadows is the third and final book in the exciting Harbored Secrets series. Set in Walton, Georgia, the story follows Pecca Gallegos, a young mother who has run from her past. She has made a new life as a nurse working at Home for Heroes, a place for veterans to find healing and therapy. She loves her work, and she feels safe far away from El Paso and her old life. But her son’s father is an incarcerated gang member, and she gets word that the gang is now searching for her and her son. As her concern for her son’s and her own safety grows, she acquires a new patient, Army captain Colton Crawford, who has been honorably discharged due to his movement disorder. Pecca begins therapy sessions with Colton, and it doesn’t take long for chemistry to develop. But as Pecca’s safety is repeatedly threatened, and Colton’s protective instincts kick in, will Colton be able to overcome his disorder to give Pecca the safety she needs?After reading Living Lies and Deadly Deceit, I was really looking forward to this last book in the series, and I was not disappointed. It was exciting and romantic and had plot twists that I didn’t see coming. I appreciate the message that is delivered with Colton’s story line; that life may not be what you had envisioned, but that God has a purpose for your life and he has you right where he needs you to be. I liked the awkwardness of Pecca towards Colton; that even though she was a competent professional and beautiful, she was nervous and awkward with him. And I thought the relationship between Colton and Maceo, Pecca’s son, was sweet and endearing. Overall, I thought Silent Shadows was a great read, and my only regret is that it is the last book of the series and I’m going to have to say goodbye to the characters in Walton, Georgia that I’ve become so fond of.*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[beachbaby1124 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this story, it was fast paced with just enough romance to not make me lose interest. It actually made me want to go read the first two books in her series. Great storytelling!

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Silent Shadows by Natalie Walters has Pecca Gallegos living in Walton, Georgia with her son, Maceo. She moved to get her son away from the dangerous life of his father who is currently in prison. Pecca works as a rehabilitation nurse at Home for Heroes where the men who occupy D-Wing just love her. Her latest patient, though, is a different story. Captain Colton Crawford and Pecca get off to a rough start. Colton has a movement disorder that has drastically changed his life. Doctors have been unable to cure or find the cause. Dr. Mike Kelly and his treatments are Colton’s last hope. Colton is drawn to Pecca and her friendly son, Maceo. After dinner at the local café, someone takes pot shots at Pecca. Someone from Pecca’s past is after her. Colton works to uncover who is behind the attacks and to keep Pecca along with Maceo safe. Silent Shadows is the third book in the Harbored Secrets series, but it can be read on its own (but, really, why would you want to). We do get a visit from recurring characters along with new ones. I thought Silent Shadows was well-written with complex, realistic characters. I did find the pacing a little slow in the beginning, but it soon picks up with the action. I admit that it does feel like a medical romance until bad things start to happen. The story then draws you in as Pecca finds herself in danger. She wants to keep her son safe and needs Colton’s help to do it. I enjoyed the older veteran’s in D-Wing. They were a delight and added humor to this intense story. I was confused as to Pecca’s profession. We are told she is a nurse, but she also oversees the patient’s physical therapy. Online sleuthing led me to rehabilitation nurses (nurse practitioners and clinical nurses may sub-specialize in this field). I felt bad for Colton as he dealt with his movement disorder. It seemed so painful and uncontrollable. I can see why Colton was frustrated. I thought Home for Heroes sounded like a wonderful place and I hope such places exist int he real world for our amazing veterans. The mystery is challenging because it is not what you expect. I liked figuring out who was the bad guy. The attraction between Colton and Pecca was obvious (very palpable). Maceo is such a cutie and it is obvious he needs and wants a male role model in his life (one he likes football and Marvel comics is preferred). Silent Shadows has intrigue, danger, action, humor, faith, secrets, action and romance. I enjoyed the epilogue that nicely wrapped up Silent Shadows and the Harbored Secrets series. Silent Shadows is an intriguing novel with football fanatics, Marvel mania, a deadly destroyer, vigilant veterans, a chronic condition, a nurturing nurse, and a surprising secret.

[caslater83 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Silent Shadows is a great book. I'm only sorry that this is the end of a trilogy. I was given a copy as an ARC in exchange for a review. Now I wish I had all three books!You cannot possibly miss the sparks that go off between Colton and Pecca. If you miss it, you're not quite bright. When it appears that someone is out to get Pecca, Colton steps up to protect her. He adores her and he likes her son, Maceo. He's not willing to go down without a fight. I think we all wish for someone like Colton in our own lives.I also love the interaction between Lane and Pecca. Lane is funny. I can myself striking up a friendship with her. She loves Pecca and Maceo and she's already playing matchmaker between Pecca and Colton.All in all, this was a really pleasant read.

[croknot1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I received this well-written mystery through LT and I'm so glad I did. I love a good mystery. The romance isn't overwhelming, and the veterans banter was interesting. Thumbs up!

[jumbler-2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A well written, enjoyable book. It is set at a mansion in Georgia that has been converted to Homes for Heroes. Pecca works at the mansion while raising her son. The vets that are at the mansion are quite a crew, enjoyed their banter back and forth. Someone from Pecca's past is after her and her son. Colton Crawford steps in to help protect her while dealing with his own issues. The mystery is good, didn't figure it out until the end. A good read!

[macygma · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Coming out on March 31 is a book well worth the time to read: Silent Shadows is the story of a discouraged vet in rehab, the nurse who tries to break through his issues and her son.Colton Crawford has developed a movement disorder that he feels will end all his dreams. Pecca Gallegos moved to Georgia from Texas to make a life for herself and her son. They meet when she tackles him because she thinks he’s chasing her boy. Between their growing attraction, the rehab, the veterans at the Home who are pushing for romance life goes one; but then things change. People are killed, shot at, and no one seems to know why except Pecca. She thinks it’s because her son’s father was in a gang. Colton and others come to her aid as far as protection goes, but some aren’t what they seem.The plot in this tale was very well done, I didn’t have a clue until near the end and I doubt you will, either. This is book #3 for Walters so I am headed to see what the first two were about! Enjoy!!

[cathyshelton_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An intriguing and suspenseful book set in an old mansion in Georgia. Pecca is a nurse working in a physical rehab center for veterans. Colton is her newest patient who she collides with on his first day. Their relationship takes many turns and twists, especially after Colton starts working with Pecca's son, Maceo, who has a prostetic leg. To add to all this someone is threatening Pecca's life. A very good book that I recommend highly.

[jjean7-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Well written with just enough characters to hold your interest but not "overload" your reading - Story has some of everything - family - murder - romance - intrigue along with a few twist - it could be listed as a cozy mystery/romance.