I had the opportunity to read Mind Games a while back and, honestly, have anticipated opening this thread since I finished. For me, it was a reading adventure and I had so much fun with Thea, Rem and Lucy.
Right now, I’m re-reading by listening to January LaVoy narrate and the feeling is the same.
Here’s the official description:
As they do each June, the Foxes have driven the winding roads of Appalachia to drop off their children for a two-week stay at their grandmother’s. Here, twelve-year-old Thea can run free and breathe in the smells of pine, fresh bread, and Grammie’s handmade candles. But as her parents head back to suburban Virginia, they have no idea they’re about to cross paths with a ticking time bomb.
Back in Kentucky, Thea and her grandmother Lucy both awaken from the same nightmare. And though the two have never discussed the special kind of sight they share, they know as soon as their tearful eyes meet that something terrible has happened.
The kids will be staying with Grammie now in Redbud Hollow, and thanks to Thea’s vision, their parents’ killer will spend his life in Supermax. Over time, Thea will make friends, build a career, find love. But that ability to see into minds and souls still lurks within her, and though Grammie calls it a gift, it feels more like a curse—because the inmate who shattered her childhood has the same ability. Thea can hear his twisted thoughts and witness his evil acts from miles away. He knows it, and hungers for vengeance. A long, silent battle will be waged between them—and eventually bring them face to face.
Here’s the chance to discuss Mind Games in the comments — so spoilers are allowed.
Laura
I can’t wait! My audio book should hit any day now!
It arrived…so, kudos to Turn The Page for a great job!!
And OMG that opening chapter….now to delve into the rest of it!!!
Got it as an ebook and straight away dived in. Stayed awake all night as I couldn’t put it down. Absolutely brilliant. Loved all the characters and I would love to have Lucy as my gran. Such a great threesome. Keep it up Nora I so love your books
Update: I got it! See you all later!
My copy arrived in the mail yesterday, and I could not put it down. When I finished it late last night – very, very late last night, but who needs to sleep when there’s a Nora to read – I thought out loud: one of her best in years. Now, I’ll get the audio version to listen to in a couple of months, as is my practice. (And I believe January Lavoy is the very best female narrator out there.)
Big shout out on this one – fabulous read! Great job!
Just got the book yesterday. I have to finish what I am currently reading, and then will dive in. Love the description.
I was lucky to win an early copy! I loved the story so much and the characters REM,Thea and Lucy were fantastic! Nora has another hit on her hands. Wonderful book!!
Waiting for my book today. Always look forward to Nora’s books. Know it will hold my attention as always. 👍👍👍
I am on the library list about 5 in line
About halfway through. And I am loving it. But Laura does Nora play video games with the grandkids? Because I could see her being that kind of Grandma.
No, but she enjoys watching them play. -Laura
Me too!!! Hugs to you both!!! Congratulations on another great book Nora.
Can I ask is it scary? I used to love psychic type stories then listened to a really scary series with a killer that could get into the psychic’s mind and it was more like horror and not at all what I’m into. I’m assuming Nora’s book wouldn’t be like that but would just like to double check!
Overall, I think the book was more suspenseful than scary. The scenes that detail what happens to her parents are a difficult read, but crucial to the story. Really, for me, the book was about family, courage, and strength. Lovely characters.
It was not as bad as I feared. The buildup showing his rage was so strong I was afraid there would be more. The hands were a great touch. Used so well. And as always the title choice was perfect. Thks for a great read/listen. I too love January LaVoy.
Whatever the Nora book I have in my hands when reading I feel like I am a part of the story. When I have to stop and start reading , the characters are always in my mind and I am anxiously awaiting the return to the plot.
Nora, you are a wonderful writer and always look forward to your next book!!!!!
My copy arrived yesterday, yea!!! Going to try to read it slowly so it will last longer, lol. Love my Nora books and hate when I finish one. Thank you for sharing your amazing talent.
it’s out of the park. 100% perfect. Only problem it’s a stand alone so no more Rem.
Let’s hope Nora changes her mind. The story is just beginning.
Holy cow, chapters 4 and 5! Between Nora’s writing and January LaVoy’s reading, I am a mess! This one definitely goes on the favorites list!
Loved this book! Have not started the audiobook yet, but it is definitely coming up soon. This book had me in tears, as did Legacy. Love Nora’s books, she is one of my “go to” authors.
Mine will be here Saturday – thought I had pre-ordered but apparently not. Can’t wait. Just finished re-reading the Keys trilogy. Love all things Nora Roberts
Got my copy Tuesday and have read twice this week, love the characters and as always hard to put down
Also got an early copy! It was amazing as always! Nora has a way of weaving a story together. Her plots are fast moving and take us on an amazing journey. I thought there were parts that were scary. I wasn’t sure I could trust the cops but they turned out to be long time “friends”. I loved the relationship between Thea and her brother and how that evolved. Grammie was strong and the backbone of the new family. She is community minded which I do love. Waiting anxiously for the next Lost Bride book! And agree, January LaVoy is an amazing narrator!
My wonderful library had this waiting for me on release day and I LOVED it. Read it quickly as I know there’s a long waiting list but I know I will re-read this book one of these days as it has everything I most enjoy about Nora’s books—family, kids, dogs, gardens, cozy homes, food, and heart & soul. Not to mention some very intense and gripping action. Thank you Nora!
Amazon Deloitte last night. I cracked it open this morning and have already cried at least half a dozen times. Somehow Nora Roberts has always been able to do that when other authors cannot. My family is from the mountains in Kentucky, so I am also laughing out loud. Loving this book!
I amazed at Nora’s creativity and her mind. What story , I loved Thea. I hated that Ray “visited” her and tormented her but I loved how she got him in the end. Very interesting premise and read. I cried when her parents were killed
oh, my heart!
i’m listening to the book cause i’m working and i had to pause to come write this: january lavoy is amazing! i love when she narrates Nora’s books cause she brings so much to the already wonderful story. but damn! i just finished chapter 6 and i’ve been tearing up nonstop! can’t wait to hear what’s next!
I loved this book so much. I devoured it in less then 24 hours! The characters were amazing and NR pulled so many emotions from me as usual!
Nora,
I want to thank you for setting your wonderful book in the Appalachian mountains. I was raised in Southwestern Virginia near Kentucky. My upbringing was much as you described, neighbors helping neighbors, surrounded by people who always showed up in times of need. Resilient, wonderful people. I’ve had many apple stack cakes! Thank you again so very much. I am and will always be a lifelong fan.
Rebecca
I listened to it all in one day. I can’t help myself. Then, I reread it again to savor it. Such a lovely treat. 🥰🥰🥰🤩
Just finished and will say, this is one darn good book. It has been added to my most favorite books list that includes the Dragon Heart Trilogies and the Discovery of Witches series.
I got it Tuesday! My niece owns Talking Animals bookstore in Grapevine, Texas And I was so excited to run out the door after work and go pick it up! It is already so good! I leave for vacation tomorrow and I’m so happy to have a good book to read. Thank you, Nora for taking me on these journeys with you!
Such a GOOD BOOK!!! Just finished it and want to reopen it for another read!! I love how NR creates such wonderful stories that bring you right into the drama!! Thank you for sharing your gift!!!
I loved this book. I think it’s the best romantic suspense book she has written since Come Sundown. The main character’s strength reminded me of the strength of the characters in some of my favorite reads, The Witness, The Obsession, and The Liar. Nora has such a talent for description, dialog, and characterization, that she’s head and shoulders above just about anyone else. I also love her In Death and fantasy books. I haven’t read Identity yet, because I always wait until I have all the books in one of her trilogies before I start reading them. Mind Games will be another of her books that I will be re-reading every year.
Bonnie, just a friendly note, Identity is a stand alone book and a wonderful one. Do not delay reading it ASAP!! It’s one of Nora’s very best !
Thanks, Crystaleyez! I meant Inheritance, not Identity, which I have read. I appreciate your correction.
I have a new favorite angry phrase; “you snake eyed, black hearted hell bitch”. Love it. It just knocked “Jesus Christ in spandex” out of first place. 😁
And I’m only on page 67!
I’m only starting Chapter 3 so no spoilers here, just an observation. Many of Nora’s characters have lost their parents ( or spouses) but in earlier works, it seems like it was generally background info. Something important and sad, for sure, but removed, if you know what I mean. The last few years, we see more and more of the whole life of our hero and heroine, which brings the immediacy and sadness right to front and center. I haven’t even gotten there yet, and it’s killing me that Lucy, Thea and REM are going to be devastated and that they won’t even have that special summer beach vacation to remember.
I just finished it…I only started it on Wednesday, so two days…I have got to start reading slower.
I loved it. The ending was fantastic! Thea is so strong and to take control, to do what was needed in order to take what she wanted from life…yes!
Another amazing story that is beautifully written. This woman is just a master of her craft. I’m so grateful she continues to write such powerful stories that immediately grab you by the throat. I raced through this one and am now going back for a nice reread that makes me appreciate this book even more. I just love the way Nora writes. The details, the characters, the storyline itself. She really has a way of pulling you into the story. Waiting with bated breath for the next release.
I had tears in my eyes from Chapter 1 and 2. Not even finished with the first section yet and Wow. I love Lucy!
This book had me sucked in from the very first page!! Nora you are a story genius. As soon as Thea saw Tyler at Code Red I knew he would feature again.
As for Ray Riggs the way the character was built…oh I had such hatred for that man. What an evil despicable man ad how he finally got his comeuppance was very fitting.
My heart broke when Tyler thought Thea had betrayed his trust I was shouting at the book. However when he finally got the whole picture his acceptance of her gifts and situation I was fist pumping the air.
Gosh know we all need a brother like Rem and a grandma like grammie such beautifully written. All in all I can see this as a repeat read for years to come. I love Noras Trilogies and quartets but the stand alone books have a special place on my book shelf. This one is joining my top 10 along with (in resending order) The Witness, Legacy, Blackhills , Three Fates, Homeport, The Search, Under Currants, The Villa, The Reef and Birthright.
Keep doing what you do Best Nora xx
Another fantastic story full of love of life and family. Truly enjoyed diving into the beautiful landscape and lives of Grammie Rem Tyler and Thea and of course Brady who is just so adorable. Thank you for your wonderful talent of drawing me so in to your stories and characters. It is my new favourite of the stand alone books having knocked witness off the number 1 spot.
This had me crying out loud. I won’t say when in the book or what happens but it hit me on such an emotional level and I’m on my second go through and kinda scared it will affect me the same way. Granted I was having a bad day the first time but those emotions that got pulled up were so strong!
I’m wondering if the witch bottles that Lucy & Thea set out in their gardens are the same concept as the bottle trees we make down here in South Louisiana. Does anyone know?
I would think so. Nora wrote about them in Midnight Bayou. -Laura
As always such a wonderful book! I felt all the emotions. The funeral, I cried so hard. I look forward to reading all of Nora’s books. I keep all Nora’s stand alone books. They are my treasure.
My husband always says, see you in a day or so lol. He says I read the words off the page with Nora’s books.
Nora, you are to never retire. 🩷
I waited and waited for my copy of Mind Games and it was worth the wait. I cried and cried then realized I was just on page 100. I had to finish this book and quickly, I was so into the book. There aren’t enough words, it was Great.
I just finished Mind Games and I loved every page! I cried and I laughed, what more do you need in a book? Nora, you are a pleasure to read. I have every book you’ve ever written and will continue. Thank you!
I’m just at Part III, and I’m so glued to this book, that my husband is grumbling. All I can think of is, “Will there be a second book? Can you make this a trilogy?” I see some of Nora’s other trilogies in the video games. I can’t wait to finish this, but at the same time, I want it to go on and on!
OMg just finished this. What an amazing read once again , Nora Roberts you have absolutely smashed it. What a genius. And I’m just gonna say after the conclusion – GO THEA! What a way to end. Loved every word, I sunk right into their world and did not want to leave. Thank you xx
I tried to savor it, but it was too good to put down. I reread it yesterday. Great story! Thanks, NR
I really enjoyed this book but I cried a lot. Such wonderful characters. Great dialogue and friendships as always.
Oh and I tried the chicken marinade. Pretty good. It’s probably been asked but cookbook? There often seems to be a description of something good cooking wise.
I not only don’t have time to attempt to write a cookbook (VERY complicated and specific) but I don’t cook in a way that would work, ie
with precise measurements, etc. I’m just a novelist who likes to cook—and have characters enjoy good food.
I definitely appreciate the sentiment as I cook the same way and thanks for including the descriptions once in a while. I have enjoyed those I’ve tried. But I must admit, I’m very pleased you’ve chosen to spend your time telling us stories. Thanks for all the books.
I just bought margarita mix lol
Wish there was a recipe in the back of the book
🤷♀️
I think I say this after every book Nora writes, but my goodness she is such a fantastic writer! Her books pull me into the story. They are a mix of being both inspiring ( I love how she weaves in all the ways of being self sufficient) and tells a tale filled with action. Family is so key to this, both the good and not so good aspects. Thanks, Nora!
I tried the chicken marinade Nora mentions in the book. Margarita mix and soy sauce? Sounds crazy, but it was delicious, very moist, with just a hint of flavor! I’ve added it to my “make again” file!
That marinade’s actually one of BW’s concoctions. He’ll be pleased!
Great read for a long weekend vacation. I had no trouble drowning out the sounds of a water park while my kids splashed around so I could read. Finished it in two days. 🙂
I’m only 20% into it. But so far I’m not really liking it. I adore all the Nora Roberts books, but this one seems like someone else wrote it. There’s a love of sweetie mushy thinking in it. Which is fine, but it goes on and on. I’m not sure why I don’t like it yet
Sorry you’re not enjoying the book, but I wrote it. If my name’s on it, I wrote it. Not every book I write will resonate with every reader.
Not your cup of tea – then move on. No reader will love every book a favored author pens. You set yourself up for failure with that expectation as no book is written with your personal tastes in mind unless you write yourself. It why I personally refrain from negative comments about story arc on any book.
When I first started to readNR books I would identify with the young protagonist and see life through their eyes. Now in my 60’s I’m drawn to characters that are older in her books. While I won’t ever be a grandmother if I were , I’d love to be like Lucy. What an amazing woman/character.
Thank you for another fabulous book/experience.
I finished Mind Games this morning. I picked it up from the Library on Saturday for a nice Memorial Day Weekend read. I took my time . WOW .
I savored every chapter . The story as always is well crafted. The research done into the gaming industry how to craft a video game , & graphics is just amazing . I know nothing about that industry & what it takes to do a video game, create the layers .
The going inside the mind of a killer .
Nora Roberts is a writer, novelist who takes the reader away from start to finish in a solid story .
In all the Nora Roberts books I have read I always think each one is the best . Each one is the best in their own way.
After I finished the last chapter this morning (very early) I started to think what 2025s stand alone Memorial Day weekend release will be since it usually comes out before. As Nora has stated the books are written the year before & it’s a process of getting the manuscript into a book which can take 12 months . All good things come with time .
Thank you Laura for keeping up Nora’s social media.
Thank you Nora for sharing your gift of writing . I think the world would be dull if you hadn’t started to sell your manuscripts.
I liked how the final confrontation was portrayed. The suspense was there from the moment of the early arrest. There had to be danger, but how would it be done? With a surrogate like The Search? With a successful escape? The attempt to coerce suicide. Would Thea’s loved ones be endangered? I really like that Thea dealt with the creep herself, and how well it worked with her profession. I love how everything Nora puts into a book has a purpose. I have no idea how you write, but I love the way it all makes sense, comes together. How there is a reason for everything, even something seemingly minor like pushing a fellow inmate to commit suicide, or the red herring of a guard helping him to escape. The reader has to pay attention to everything, because eventually. There is no filler, which makes the reading a pleasure.
Amazing book from the best author out there. She usually publishes her solo book around my birthday so it feels like a gift. And I look forward all year to the new trilogy book at Thanksgiving. I’ve read just about everything Nora Roberts has ever written, and I’m just in awe as her books just get even better.
With total sincerity, I hope Nora continues to bless us with her books for years to come!
This book was even better than I anticipated! That sounds weird but I really wasn’t expecting to like it as much as I have!!
I’m waiting a couple of weeks to let it settle, then rereading at a slower pace.
Once again Ms Roberts has given me another great read!!
Loved this! I devoured the audiobook. One of Nora Robert’s great strengths is character and relationship building. I love the family sagas of hers and you can’t help but come to care about these families that struggle, but continue to love and support each other. Then comes January Lavoy to perfectly narrate and bring these stories to life. What a perfect combination!
I just received my preordered copy yesterday and stayed up until 4 am to finish it. Absolutely could not put it down, I am so invested in Thea and Grammie is one of my favorite characters in a really long time! I really wish there could be a way to make this a series, I love the family, the gift, and way Thea uses it so much. I have never cried reading a thriller before but I went through a lot of tissues and Scotch reading this one. I can’t wait to read it again!
This one really tweaked my anxiety in a good way. I spent the book trying to figure out how that psychopath was going to get to Thea. I had flashbacks to The Search and Legacy, thinking he was going to convince either one of the guards or some prisoner to go after Thea. Other than that, I enjoyed getting to know Thea, Lucy and Ren. I was totally taken off guard at the break up scene! Didn’t play out like I thought. I had to stop reading because I was crying so hard—genius. Loved, loved, loved the resolution. Another great read. Thanks Nora Roberts.
Non-spoiler question about Mind Games. I’m curious why Caleb’s newborn is identified as Thea’s nephew on page 183. I thought Caleb was Thea’s uncle… so his son would be her cousin?
Mistake. It somehow got by me, my editor, copy editor, proffer—then me again!
It felt right though. I noticed it and dismissed it because it felt like treating him as a nephew rather than a cousin was right. Like in Undercurrents the Aunt is treated as a grandmother. Family isn’t always blood, so relationships within can be other. At least for me it worked rather than a mistake. And the glitch, thinking about it for a minute just gave the relationship more emphasis. Happy accidents.
I was looking to see if anyone had brought this to your attention yet. It actually stopped me immediately, while reading.
I love, love, love this book! Nora strikes gold again! I’m starting my reread now.
Wow. There was a reference to New Albany. I was thinking in New England, then it was related to Ohio. Goosebumps – i’ m a seamstress and have many clients in New Albany – I have always figured Nora must have some family in Columbus because of the references.. makes it fun.
Great book- thoroughly enjoyed..getting ready to listen again.. Great reminder of the power of the mind. I needed it right now.. As usual, it moved me. Love how your books touch so deeply and reveal new thoughts plus entertain.. Maybe that made sense ? Thank you Nora, from Maube
The way Thea imagines her games, I wonder is there a similarity to how Nora does her fabulous trilogies? Loved this one.
I really loved Mind Games. Great characters . I bought it at Walmart but was disappointed that pages 398 and 399 had ink smears on them. Does Walmart get them at a discount because of this? Couldn’t put it down. Got to bed at 3:45am.
Hi Connie,
I’m sorry this happened. Could you email this information to me at readers@noraroberts.com? The publisher always wants to know about misprinted books — and they do not sell damaged items to particular retailers.
Thanks,
Laura
Read it for book club. Hated it. Syrupy, too descriptive of incidentals and goofy long winded game descriptions and characters. The best thing about it was Ray. His emotions though twisted were real. 3 out of the 8 of us feel the same way. Except for Cora and John’s murder everyone connected with the family was “gifted” or wealthy at very young ages while having children so young.
Love novels by JD Robb so was looking for that writing style.
Nora is the first to say that not every book will work for every reader. Sorry Mind Games didn’t work for you.
Laura
Oh Nora I love love LOVE this book it brings happy feelings in my heart and its such fun too — so much so that i just ordered a First Edition from Barnes & Nobel to collect this week…. its a story i could read many times over, i am sure of it.
Thank you so much for continuing to share your imagination this way I am eternally grateful
With much love always, Nikki 🌻
Just finished Mind Games.. what an absolute pearler of a story.. tears, laughs and a few “hold your breath” moments. But in “Living” Thea says Calebs young son is her nephew! Wouldn’t he be her cousin seeing Cora was Theas Mum and Calebs sister?
Yes, that’s an error that slipped through thr editing process. -Laura
😀 just checking.