I can't remember the last time I read a book so fast. I could have finished it in twenty-four hours but I needed to go to sleep.

I loved this book. One thing after another happens and just when you think it is over it isn't. My mind kept trying to figure out what was going on. I was wrong on several things but one I had a feeling about the whole time but even that I didn't get the motivation correct.

Kate's story is heartbreaking, witnessing her sister being murdered. She really struggles to deal with this and it isn't until she finally gives it to Jesus that true healing can begin. The way Nancy describes that process is beautiful.

Tony is a wonderful hero who just wants to protect Kate. There romance is very sweet and adds nicely to the story.

Overall, I highly recommend this one. I think it might be favorite Nancy Mehl book yet.

A copy of this book was given to me by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Brilliant storyteller, Nancy Mehl, has once again crafted a dramatic, spine-tingling suspense -- guaranteed to keep you holding on to the edge of your seat with bated breath! My emotions ran the gamut as I took a chilling roller coaster ride into the mastermind behind numerous serial killings and his intended victim, Kate O'Brien. Kate has been living a quiet life in small-town, Shelter Cove, under an assumed name, after a horrendous attack four years prior by a notorious serial killer took the life of her twin sister. Kate appears strong and whole, but much to her chagrin, handsome Deputy U.S. Marshall Tony DeLuca draws attention to the fact that she is in denial about that horrific night and needs inner healing. Tony has his own denial issues when it comes to his feelings about Kate, and protecting her is definitely in the forefront. He accepts an assignment to escort her back to St. Louis, but a new development in the case forces them to stay in Shelter Cove. However, has something sinister taken hold in sleepy little Shelter Cove...and will Tony be able stop any more killings before it is too late?

As I breathlessly turned the last electrifying page of this novel (which I finished in only 24 hours - by the way), I looked at the baseball game that was on tv and my first thought was, "Wow. Nancy Mehl has sure hit this one out of the ballpark!" The plot was so intricately detailed, I don't know how she even kept it straight! Just when I thought I had figured out who-dun-it, there was another twist to confuse my already battered brain! Mehl's expertise at writing suspense has certainly amped up a notch or two and Dark Deception just may be my favorite book of hers thus far. A heart-pounding, suspenseful read with a whisper of romance, and an inspirational thread of hope and healing throughout, Dark Deception is certainly one novel you don't want to miss!

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion, and was not required to write a positive review.

This book was very well written. A nice balance of suspense and romance. I've kept it as a part of my library. Well done Sleeman.

Nancy Mehl skillfully brought to life the emotions, patterns, and experiences of such diverse characters in "Dark Deception." In the second book of the Defenders of Justice series, U.S. Marshals are called into action for a case involving a vile serial killer. A living victim, Kate O'Brien, has tried to leave behind her nightmares, but that may not be easily achieved. Kate and the lead Marshal on the case don't know what they'll face, but will the darkness lead to healing or a complete break?

There were so many plot twists! I was exhausted just following the characters and deceptive intentions! It is fun to read a high-action book and be kept on your toes and for that reason I would suggest picking up this series!

I received "Dark Deception" from Bethany House Publishing for my honest review.

A little bit of background on this book. This is the second book in the Defenders of Justice series. The first book is Fatal Frost

This story once again centers around the U.S. Marshalls office and one of their Marshalls. This story is about Deputy U.S. Marshal Tony DeLuca. Tony had become involved with Kate OBrien 4 years ago when she and her sister had been attacked by a serial killer. Much of the outcome of the trial had to do with Kates intervention and the killer was convicted at the trial. Now in witness protection, her past is coming back full force as it seems they may have convicted the wrong person and the killer is still out there. With a new trial looming ahead, Kate will only feel safe by having Tony at her side again. Can Tony keep Kate safe from the killer again? Will the right person finally be found and brought to justice? Dont go hiding from this one, go BUY THIS BOOK!

I always enjoying picking up a copy of a book by Nancy Mehl. I can always count on reading a plot that stays true from start to finish, fully developed characters and suspense that would put any suspense writer to shame. Once again, I wasnt let down. Nancy seems to tie everything together in a beautiful bow, not with characters that are flawless, but with characters and stories that are flawed just like me. Maybe thats what makes me enjoy her books because I can identify with so many of her characters.

Is this a "Guys Book"? Serial Killer Check! Danger around every corner Check! Suspenseful plot that keeps you from wanting to put the book down Check!. Definitely a book that any guy would want to get his hands on!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion, as part of their Book Review Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.