Independent and tenacious journalist Vivian DeMarco is back in Walton, Georgia, for one reason–to do her job and get out. When her boss suddenly dies under suspicious circumstances, Vivian’s only hope for finding the truth–and the next big story–is small-town law enforcement’s lanky poster boy, Deputy Ryan Frost. But the deeper they dig, the more twisted the truth becomes, and Vivian finds … herself fighting for not only answers but also her life. False leads, incriminating emails, and someone called The Watcher force Vivian to confront the secret of her past and decide: How much is she willing to risk for the sake of a headline?
Author Natalie Walters welcomes you back to Walton, Georgia, where everyone knows your name–but no one knows your secret.
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Perfectly sweet, suspenseful and geeky romance….loved it! I loved the Marvel and Star Wars references. Ryan the hero and protector, and feisty independent Vivian were a joy to get to know. I cracked up numerous times at their witty banter. What an original storyline for the evil villain. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this story, it just hit all the right notes for a completely enjoyable read for me!
This story had me from the first few pages and I knew this would be a great book. Vivian is a journalist who receives a call from her boss to meet him. You could feel the uneasiness in Vivian who thought it was odd he wanted to meet her. When she gets to her destination she finds her boss dead. What did he want to tell her? Her instincts kick in as she starts to dig into his death.
Ryan is a detective who is serious about his job. When he teams up with Vivian the intrigue heightens. I liked how the author showed how two characters work together as they slowly develop feelings for each other. It was nice to have the focus on the mystery more than the romance.
The author doesn’t disappoint suspense readers as the investigation finds Vivian and Ryan in danger. The twists in the story are unexpected which makes for an exciting read. I have found a new to me author who can write intriguing stories that are clean, adventurous and filled with wonderful characters.
I received a copy of this book from the Librarything Early Readers Program. The review is my own opinion.
Awesome read!
This is the second book in the Harbored Secrets series, and it is just as awesome as the first. We only got a brief glimpse of Vivian in book one. This book is a great example of the author bringing back a character that didn’t seem very likable, and proving her worthy of a second chance. Also, deputy Ryan Frost transitions from nerdy computer geek to more superhero. I loved the fun banter between Ryan and Vivian. Also, the suspense is great with the author giving the villain’s point of view. It will definitely keep you guessing as to the true identity of the Watcher.
This series has been filled with great characters and great suspense. I can’t wait to read book three!
*I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
Independent and tenacious journalist Vivian DeMarco is back in Walton, Georgia, for one reason–to do her job and get out. When her boss suddenly dies under suspicious circumstances, Vivian’s only hope for finding the truth–and the next big story–is small-town law enforcement’s lanky poster boy, Deputy Ryan Frost. But the deeper they dig, the more twisted the truth becomes, and Vivian finds herself fighting for not only answers but also her life. False leads, incriminating emails, and someone called The Watcher force Vivian to confront the secret of her past and decide: How much is she willing to risk for the sake of a headline?
We are taken back to Walton, GA. Vivian lost her job when she didn’t reveal something personal about one of the subjects of her story. All Vivian wants to do is do a good job in Walton so she can get back on a big city paper again. Things don’t always go as planned. Ryan and Vivian had met previously in book one of the series. He has since gone to Quantico FBI training and trying to decide what he is supposed to do with his life. Stay in Walton, GA or accept the many job offers he has received. As Vivian and Ryan try to catch The Watcher, their paths constantly intersect with each other.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although this is book two in the series, it isn’t necessary to read book one to understand this book. Some of the same people are in both books and it fills in the gaps where needed.
I was given this book by Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
Amazing story, love the town and the characters. My favorite characters of course would be Ryan, Sherriff Huggins and Pecca. I especially loved all the super hero bits. And the HEA.
This story kept me entertained and excited to see what would come next. I loved the suspense and trying to figure out who did what. I can’t wait for book 3.
*4.5 stars*
After devouring Natalie Walter’s debut novel Living Lies, I’ve been impatiently waiting for her next release. With a slew of twists and turns mixed with plenty of action, Deadly Deceit is a book you won’t want to put down.
The book started out with a bang, instantly gripping the reader with suspense. There was a bit of a lull for me as the relationship with Ryan and Vivian started to develop mostly because I was so anxious to find out more about the case, but I did like the fun things the author had them do together and the witty banter between them. Once it was back to the action though I was fully sucked in and stayed there until the end.
One thing I have found that Natalie Walters does very well, is taking little details of a character’s past and using them in much bigger ways later on. I can’t share any details of this because I don’t want to spoil anything, but you’ll see for yourself once you read it too.
Even though this is the second book in a series it could also easily be read as a standalone. The primary characters from Living Lies are present in this novel, but not in vital roles where you’d feel lost in any way. I recommend the first one just because I enjoyed it as well, but it’s not a requirement to understanding this one.
I really enjoyed this read and I’m already looking forward to the next in the series. I highly recommend to romantic suspense fans 🙂
*I received a copy of this book through the publisher. Thoughts and opinions expressed are mine alone.
Natalie Walters does it again! Deadly Deceit is an action-packed story full of humor and epic dialogue, heartwarming scenes, sweet romance, and more. I loved getting to read Ryan Frost’s story, and Vivienne was the perfect counterpart to his character! Walters is an incredibly talented author and her beautiful writing style quickly and easily draws you into the story. The fictional small town of Walton, GA, is the perfect setting for the series, and I can’t wait to read book three! If you’re a romantic suspense fan, this one definitely belongs on your shelf!
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for promotional purposes. I was not required to write an honest review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Will this story make or break her…?
I’ve been looking forward to reading Deadly Deceit since I read the first book in the Harbored Secrets series awhile back. Natalie Walters had started out strong and I wondered if that would continue in this book. My expecations were definitely met.
I have to admit that I took a real dislike to Vivian when I read the first book in the series so when I saw that she was the heroine in this book I was a bit dubious. But, you know what? As the story progressed she grew on me until I rather liked her by the end. And Ryan, oh Ryan, let’s just say he ain’t that skinny geek from book one.
Deadly Deceit is only Natalie Walters’s second published book but her writing really comes across as that of an old pro. The suspense was developed much better in this book than the first but there were less emotional/psychological overtones that I did miss from book one. That being said, I really did enjoy both books, each for a different reason, and I am definitely looking forward to the final book in the series when it releases.
All in all, a good book in a great series, and one that I would recommend to lovers of the romantic suspense genre.
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
Wow, what an exciting book! This mystery was really good and kept me guessing. I loved all the Marvel references, they made for a fun added bonus to the story. I also enjoyed getting to know Frannie better. I would love to see her story!! Looking forward to book three!!
I received this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Incredible! Deadly Deceit will go down as one of my top five favorite reads of 2019, hands down!! Wow! I loved this book so much!! Walters wove such an intricate story and as wonderful as Living Lies was, I feel like she really hit her stride with this book. It’s expertly crafted, the characters are vibrant and engaging, and every time I thought I knew who The Watcher was…I was wrong. Also, that banter was on POINT!
Another excellent romantic suspense from author Natalie Walters. This one focuses on Ryan, who is a cyber genius and has now been through Quantico and sought out by multiple agencies. He’s back in Walton serving with the sheriff’s department. Vivian DeMarco is working for the local paper and her boss calls for her to meet him. He only gives her a first name before he dies. And so begins an investigation, search for a story and much more! I loved the layers of the story. Definitely a must read for romantic suspense book lovers. I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.
“Leave it to Harold to die with a story on his lips.”
Deadly Deceit is a fantastic book! This story has it all – small town charm, great friendships, witty banter, tenderness, humor (oh, so much humor!!), a well-plotted mystery, nail-biting suspense and a completely believable (and adorably geeky) romance!
This book deserves a group hug!
You totally need to read this book! Be sure to read Living Lies first! Both stories are almost standalones, but really…just read Living Lies because it was awesome, too!
I’m looking forward to the final book in this series, Silent Shadows, releasing in March 2020. Pecca Gallegos was a super strong supporting character in Deadly Deceit and I can’t wait to see her in the spotlight!
I absolutely recommend this book!! Deadly Deceit is available TODAY – visit Christian Book to purchase a copy for yourself!
To learn more about Natalie Walters, check out her website and newsletter at http://www.nataliewaterswriter.com Don’t forget to follow her on social media!
I received a copy of this book from Natalie Walters and Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing. A positive review was not required. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Natalie Walters pens attention-grabbing romantic suspense stories as if she’s been writing novels for years. Well-developed storylines and characters sure to grasp a reader’s attention, is what a reader can expect from this author. By the way, Deadly Deceit is Natalie Walters second novel in Harbored Secrets, published by Revell.
Journalist Vivian DeMarco returns to Walton, Georgia on assignment; not every memory Vivian has from her previous history with the city of Walton is positive, her goal is to get the story and leave. But when her boss dies unexpectedly, in a rather suspicious way, Vivian finds herself involved in not only investigating a story, she also determines to find out who would kill her boss and why.
Deputy Ryan Frost isn’t entirely convinced that Vivian’s boss may have been murdered, but when strange things begin happening to the attractive reporter, his attention focuses on keeping her safe, and alive.
The Watcher uses incriminating emails to control and extort money from his victims. An opportunist, skilled and adept at manipulating computer technology, The Watcher seems to know things no one else does. Secrets are not safe with him, even the secrets his victims were sure no one could possibly know.
Vivian and Deputy Ryan Frost agree to work together to find the elusive Watcher, before someone else dies.
Highly recommend Deadly Deceit by Natalie Walters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am under no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions therein are solely my own, and freely given.
Wow, what a fantastic book 2 in the Harbored Secrets series! At first it was hard to wrap around the fact that Deputy Ryan Frost had changed so much since Living Lies, but since the characters had to accept it too, it definitely added to the plot. I loved digging deeper into Ryan’s story and Vivian’s as well. So many secrets, so much that needed to be forgiven. The message of forgiveness as well as trust were weaved throughout and handled very well. The mystery of the Watcher was well thought out and kept me on the edge of my seat to figure out who he/she was. I’m glad Pecca was incorporated into the plot, so we could learn a little about her since she is the heroine of book 3, Silent Shadows. I also loved seeing Lane and Charlie again. And who wouldn’t like little quips involving Hallmark channel, Marvel and Star Wars. So many of my favorite things in one book!
Favorite quote by Pecca – “Forgiving someone is not saying what they did to you is okay. Forgiving is saying you will no longer allow what they did to you to control your life.”
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I adore this author’s stories because of the detail and emotion she puts into her characters and plot. Once again she nailed it – the build up of betrayal, danger and loaded secrets is amazing! Vivian and Deputy Frost have a chemistry that leads to lively banter as they try not to die. It read like a movie to me. It was great to have the secondary characters back that we fell in love with in the first book. Plus a few interesting others! Another reason I love this author is she never has characters playing stupid. If you find a clue, you tell people, you act on it. I appreciate that so much in a story! Another bookshelf KEEPER.
“Deadly Deceit” by Natalie Walters is a great romantic suspense novel! This is the second in the series, but you can start with this one. I liked the first one in the series, but this was my favorite. In fact, I had a hard time putting this one down!
This book follows Natalie DeMarco, a journalist. When she gets a call from her boss and finds him dead, the journalist in Natalie tries to find out how he died. She ends up teaming up with Deputy Ryan Frost. This also unleashes a series of other suspicious activity involving someone calling himself “The Watcher”. I really liked how this subject was a little different than most romantic suspense novels. There were twists and turns along the way, with some romantic tension thrown in!
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy good, clean, romantic suspense novels. Natalie Walters is definitely an author you don’t want to miss!
I received this novel from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.
Deadly Deceit by Natalie Walters is the second book in her Harbored Secrets series. Welcome back to the little southern town of Walton, Georgia, where secrets seldom remain hidden! Journalist Vivian DeMarco teams up with Deputy Ryan Frost to find out who murdered her boss. The characters were very believable. Ryan and Vivian have issues with their fathers. Together they encourage each other to overcome their pasts and embrace the future. The suspense in this book started on page one and never stopped. The twists and turns kept you riveted and just when you thought you couldn’t take any more the author threw in a little romance to get you ready for the next adventure! I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one. Natalie Walters is one of my new favorite authors.
I received this book from LibraryThing for my honest review.
This books is a perfect combination of hold-your-breath suspense, heart-a-flutter romance, with a dash of humor, and lovable characters. I was drawn in from the very first page and held entranced until the end! The characters are well written, the mystery is quite intriguing, and the romance is perfect. It’s not corny or rushed. Vivian and Ryan had great chemistry and their relationship flowed very well! Definitely a 5 star read. I cannot wait to read book #3! Well done, Miss Walters!!
I received a complimentary copy of the book through Revell Publishing. A positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
Deadly Deceit is Natalie Walters’ second book in the Harbored Secrets series (following Living Lies). In this story, reporter Vivian DeMarco has returned to Walton, Georgia and is writing for the Gazette when her boss and friend Harold tragically and mysteriously dies. In the wake of his passing, she discovers that Harold was being blackmailed by someone known only as the Watcher. Deputy Ryan Frost has also returned to Walton from his training at Quantico and is investigating Harold’s mysterious death when he becomes reacquainted with Vivian. As they agree to work together to find answers, they discover more victims of the Watcher’s blackmailing scheme. As they search for clues to the Watcher’s identity, they find they must be ready to protect those they love as well as their own hearts.
I found Deadly Deceit to be full of action, excitement, and emotion. Just as Living Lies dealt with the topic of depression, Deadly Deceit dealt with abandonment, the trust issues and feelings of inadequacy that can result from it, and the impact it can have on relationships. I appreciate that the author tackles issues that are a real struggle for so many people and, through her writing, is able to offer encouragement and hope. I also found the characters to be relatable and likeable and the story line to be full of excitement and romance. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Deadly Deceit.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Deadly Deceit is a skillfully executed suspense novel that could easily keep most readers on the edge of their seat until the very end. The second volume in Walters’ Harbored Secrets series, this book could easily stand on its own merits but what is the fun in that? With familiar characters and the setting of Walton, Georgia from the first installment, Living Lies, readers will find this suspense filled tale even more enjoyable if they have read the first.
The narrative begins with the death of a person close to Vivian Demarco, a dedicated journalist. Determined to use her unique skills to discover the truth behind the mysterious message on her friend’s dying lips, Vivian quickly runs up against Deputy Ryan Frost who discourages her from becoming involved. Naturally Vivian stubbornly refuses and as all good readers can quickly guess, the two are soon working together to solve a case that grows beyond their original suspicions.
Multiple suspects as well as victims keeps the pair and the entire police force on their toes as they work frantically to prevent more victims and to stay alive themselves. A touch of faith and a theme of forgiveness is woven throughout the story. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend to all lovers of contemporary suspense.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by the author and Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.