The Dark Hearts Series

By: Maria Frankland

Narrated by: Jenny Myers

Book 1 - Frenemy

I stand at the front door and meticulously check my reflection in the glass. I must look perfect to meet Lou's new boyfriend. I haven't been invited but best friends don't require invitations, right?

Her presence has always been a constant, demanding focus in my life. Now, however, it's evolving into something deeper, with unsettling imitations and intrusive encroachments into every aspect of my world. The struggle to create distance only seems to intensify Donna's attachment, Pulling her dangerously closer.

And by the time I realise I've risked everything, it's probably too late to stop her.

Book 2 - The Fall Out

There's only one person who knows the truth about what happened next door. The problem is, she knows the whole truth, which is why I must ensure that she never breathes a word.

Watching and listening to Lou and Charlie used to leave me fraught with envy and loneliness. But now, living next door to my old adversary Liz, I long for the old days - when I was left alone.

My sister Jenna can't understand how the girl who was my childhood bully could now want to be my friend. People change, I tell her.

But do they?

Neither can she understand why Liz is paying for a cruise to atone for the misery she once caused me. There must be strings attached, Jenna says.

She's right. There is.

Book 3 - Nemesis

In the midst of a sea of holidaymakers, I find myself the lone outsider no companion, no luggage. An enigma among the carefree crowd. I wonder what they'd do if they knew who I am. Who I really am.

What is Liz running away from? Who is this woman my father married? Did he have any idea of what she was capable of?

My gaze fixates on the once-familiar house that now feels like a distant memory. I can hardly believe how much my life has changed and that Liz, the woman who puts the word wicked into stepmother has completely vanished.

But what she hasn't reckoned on is how hard I'm going to try to find her.

©2022, 2023 Maria Frankland (P)2025 Maria Frankland

Donna irritated me beyond anything I,ve ever encountered. What a cow!

The,story line was good, there were a lot of twists. Charlie developed well & drew empathy from me. When the narrator spoke normally, it was great but I battled with the scottish accent & sing sing way of talking. VytjiedB

awesome

loved how story lead you one way and then boom! you're on the other side of the street!

Dark and intriguing

I enjoyed listening to all 3 books as one wild, dark story about some very damaged people.
As an American, I didn't initially enjoy the heavy Yorkshire accents. However, over time I grew to appreciate them as important to the telling of the story.

Three Brilliant Psychological Thrillers!

The Dark Hearts Series … Three BRILLIANT Psychological Thrillers! Donna … Lou … Charlie … Liz … and so many more brilliantly crafted unique original characters … Their interweaving stories beautifully written with a smooth mesmerizing flow, completely absorbing me into their world! I came to care deeply for some of the characters, I spent a considerable amount of time perched on the edge of my seat, fearing for what would befall them! I will admit, there were a few I would have cheerfully sent to a place considerably warmer than the Jersey shore in an August heat wave! I was at times enraged, and at times horrified by some of THEIR antics. I know I’m being a bit … vague, but for now the who’s and what’s would be spoilers and I don’t want to give away any of the many twists, turns and surprises … a few of which had my jaw hitting the floor! As you listen, you’ll be glad I stayed hush! Outstanding professional narration brings these fabulous characters, jaw dropping twists, edge of seat tension, stunning spot on accents and emotions to life exactly as the author intended, making this a perfect listen across all categories. Five stunning stars. I loved it!