Tender Eyes

Tender Eyes 2 a novel by Matt Heart Devon Smith was supposed to be on the fast track to greatness-a college football phenom with pro scouts calling and a future lined with bright stadium lights. But one reckless decision changes everything.When his teammate Carlos convinces him to "borrow" a school bus for a weekend trip to Cincinnati-a tailgate, a big game, and a chance to meet the pros-Devon agrees. Joined by their friends Kimberly, Johnnie, Xavier, Chelsea, Dylan, Brittany, and Renee, the group sets off for what should've been the road trip of a lifetime.Until a freak accident on a snowy fog-choked back road forces them off course.Until they find themselves stranded in a forgotten town that doesn't exist on any map.A place called Tender Eyes, Ohio.The locals are too quiet. The diner is too clean. And the meat tastes… different.As night falls and people begin to disappear, Devon and his friends realize the truth: in Tender Eyes, outsiders don't leave-they're served. Matt Heart is a BMA award-winning international singer-songwriter and storyteller whose work bridges the worlds of music and literature. As the founder of 424 Records, Matt has penned over 300 original songs, weaving powerful narratives that explore themes of love, loss, temptation, and self-discovery. His lyrics, much like his books, carry emotional depth and raw authenticity.In addition to his musical legacy, Matt is the creator of Cold Fever Books, a chilling literary brand that includes both supernatural crime thrillers and eerie children's horror stories inspired by classics like Goosebumps. His adult novels-Ding Dong Witch, The Boney Man, Iniquity, Tender Eyes, Ash Wednesday, and The Incredible Bobbi Myers, Hypoxia and Caller Number Seven-blend psychological tension with the uncanny, while his middle-grade titles, including The Boy Who Talked Too Much, Zombielicious, Dare to Wake the Dead, Little Red Ridin' in the Hood, and Nightmare in a Toy Store, spark young imaginations with spooky fun.A natural storyteller with a cinematic voice, Matt's work continues to evolve across mediums. Whether crafting a heart-stopping plot twist or a soul-stirring song, he invites his audience into deeply immersive worlds where anything is possible-and nothing is ever as it seems.To follow Matt's latest releases, music, and projects, visit www.facebook.com/MattHeartFanpage or follow him on X @MattHeart.