Synopsis:~

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?

Necee’s take:~

“As a reporter, I have two choices. I can report on the darkness in the world or I can write the news in a way that restores hope.” 

When her newspaper editor and boss dies suspiciously, Vivian DiMarco searches for the truth. He was like a father to her and now she has to solve the mystery surrounding his death. As she searches for answers in this small-town community she starts to realize she is more than who she used to be. Her desire for the truth isn’t about a headline, it’s about saving a small town from criminal intent and finding a killer. A truly refreshing crime and mystery novel with characters you can’t help but love.

Meanwhile, recently returned Quantico graduate, Deputy Ryan Frost realizes the danger that Vivian is in and tries to solve the crime while keeping her alive. As the sparks fly between them, their romance blooms with a lot of fun references to superheroes. Their interactions kept me engaged from start to finish from witty to funny, while dealing with serious issues. I loved the Captain America references and who Ryan envisages her as by the end was just really cool. Walters takes a very serious subject and adds just enough romance and humor to make it a wonderfully, balanced read.

This is a story based on the realities the FBI, CIA and local police departments are battling against. There are some hard areas addressed that might be difficult for younger readers, however, the story is gripping with masterfully woven suspense. High praise to Natalie Walters… She hit the story out of the park. I believe this is the best story she has written and I’m looking forward to more from her. I love how she took a reporter without a great reputation, went into her struggles, and brought out a beautiful woman growing and changing into a better person. When you can take a hardened reporter nobody likes and turn her into someone you hope for her happy ending, that is fantastic writing. As Vivian starts letting her guard down, she learns “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.” It was such a good reminder of letting go to have a softened heart. I also loved the change in Ryan from a geeky, kind of quiet guy to a strong, confident character that everyone, including the FBI wants to hire. Taking side characters and turning them into a crime fighting duo really paid off in this rollercoaster of a read. If you love suspense, romance and superhero references, you’ll love Deadly Deceit.

I was graciously given an advanced copy by the publisher Revell through NetGalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Vivian & Ryan
All Things Walters @ Relz Reviewz
Visit Natalie’s website
Buy at Amazon: Deadly Deceit or Koorong