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.

This was a great read by a talented author. I will look forward to more books from Natalie Walters!

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!

This was so good! I love this small town feel Natalie Walters creates. Ryan and Vivian are great duo to read about as they work together. I enjoyed having a geeky/nerdy female lead who doesn’t dumb down or isn’t ashamed of it. Highly recommend this series! I can’t wait for book 3 to come out!

I received an ebook from the publisher in exchange for a honest review.

Natalie Walters has delivered another intriguing romantic suspense story, with journalist Vivian DeMarco and Deputy Ryan Frost seeking to uncover the identity of The Watcher—a highly tech-savvy blackmailer who is targeting and setting up his blackmail victims. But what does that have to do with the death of Vivian’s boss, Harold Kennedy? And what’s the common link between the other victims? It’s a knotty problem to unravel and definitely kept me reading, but I couldn’t help feeling this story wasn’t quite as strong as Walters’ first.

Before I get to that—some other positives: I loved Ryan in the first book of this series, so I was excited to have him featured as the hero here. There were also plenty of family dynamics in the story, for those who enjoy that. The relationship between Ryan and his younger sister, Frannie, was entertaining, and both Ryan and Vivian had some serious issues to work through, particularly in relation to their fathers.

The drawbacks for me: The romantic tension felt manufactured at times, and when all was said and done, I thought the motive for the blackmailer was a little far-fetched. The plot also seemed a bit untidy as it unfolded. I’m not sure whether I can explain it any better than that without giving spoilers, but I had some minor plot questions the story didn’t answer, and there were other pieces of the puzzle that I had to turn around and study in my mind before I could see how they fit together, even after the story ended.

Those things notwithstanding, this was a read that kept my attention right to the end and is sure to please many romantic suspense lovers.

Title: Deadly Deceit

Author: Natalie Walters

Series: Harbored Secrets book 2

Chapters: 33

Pages: 332

Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense

Rating: 4.5 Stars

I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about I would feel about Deadly Deceit as I wasn’t to fond of the heroine Vivian DeMarco after how her character behaved in the first book Living Lies in the series. But I also couldn’t wait to read a book in which Deputy Ryan Frost was a main character after being a secondary character in Living Lies.
Just like the first book in the series I was hooked from the first page. I just had to find bout what happened. As much as I liked Ryan in the first book I loved him even more in this one. I also enjoyed getting more of the characters back story’s.
Deadly Deceit also doesn’t stuffer from second book syndrome it’s just as good as the first book in the series. And I look forward to the next book in this series and anything else by this author. This suspense is fast paced but not so fast that the reader misses any part of the story.


I received a copy of this book from the publisher as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All 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!

I was both excited and apprehensive when I saw this title, Deadly Deceit, by Natalie Walters was available. Excited because I love romantic suspense. Apprehensive because I realized I hadn’t yet read the first book in the series.
So, let me answer that unasked question first. As someone who hasn’t read the first book, Deadly Deceit can stand well on its own.
Vivian DeMarco is a reporter at the Gazette, a small-town newspaper. Her boss, Harold, dies before he can tell her about a huge story- a “marmalade dropper.” Enter Deputy Ryan Frost, who wants De Marco out of his professional life but deep in his personal life.
Walters does a great job of causing the reader to identify with the characters. I felt so bad for Vivian’s loss of the father-figure when Harold dies. I could feel her resentment and understand the issues. I did have trouble understanding the lack of a firm trust between Vivian and Ryan as their relationship progresses. I also took issue with the fact that the author would suddenly switch point-of-view between any characters she wished without some kind of warning. Often authors use separate chapters, curlicue signs between paragraphs, scribbles, anything to separate two different paragraphs coming at the reader from different point-of-views. I was left rereading paragraphs and feeling put-out. I am told this issue may be corrected in the final paperback (and kindle?) version.
The mystery aspect was good. The danger ratchets up near the end, as it should, and the ending was well-timed and brought a true sense of relief.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinions, which are solely my own.

Romantic suspense is a difficult genre. Christian romantic suspense even more so. Natalie Walters has put the emphasis on the love story.
Besides the crime the main characters try to solve, the focus is on fathers who fail their children and what this does to those children, to their ability to trust, to love and to believe, to forgive or to seek revenge.

Not too long ago I read Natalie Walters first novel Living Lies. It was fabulous and I was looking forward to seeing if her second book would be just as delightful to read. It was.

Deadly Deceit brings us back to the small Georgia town of Walton. It is a little over a year later from where Living Lies left off. The main focus this time around is on journalist Vivian DeMarco and Deputy Ryan Frost. We met both of them in book one but they were supporting characters. This time around they are front and center.

The story pretty much thrusts the reader right into the action. There is a startlingly unexpected death that opens a Pandora's box of questions. While the characters are mostly those from the previous book the story is completely different. There are references to the first book but if you haven't read that particular story you will be fine. (Treat yourself . . . go back and read the first book if you haven't!)

Of the two books I liked the first book best, but this second book is very good too. I just preferred the story line of the first more than this one. I think that anyone that likes romantic suspense will be thrilled to discover Natalie Walters and her novels. She brings all of the elements that we expect to the story. I thought the plot moved along quickly and there were some definite twists and turns that kept me guessing.

The exciting news in the back of the book is that there is a third story, Silent Shadows that will release in the spring. I can't wait to get back to this small town to catch up on what the characters have been up to. If the first two books are any indication of what this author is capable of, we're in for a real treat.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

"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."

Vivian DeMarco was a hard hitting, independent investigative journalist. When her newspaper boss suddenly dies under suspicious circumstances in order to find the answers, Vivian finds herself teamed up with Deputy Ryan Frost. The more they dig, the more twisted trails they find.

This is my first book by author, Natalie Walters; but it definitely will not be my last. I will go back and read book 1, but this book read well as a standalone. Filled with action, suspense, and red herrings, I didn't catch on to the villian until nearly the end. The developing relationship between Vivian and Ryan was very enjoyable considering Vivian's habit of resisting relationships entirely. The small town feel of Walton, Georgia and the wonderful people who reached out to Vivian almost gave this a feel of a cozy, yet the high intensity certainly turned it into a wonderful suspense.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

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.

Once again, Natalie Walters has written a thrilling book! Full of suspense, intrigue and romance that will keep you reading long into the night.

Ms. Walters takes us back to the small town of Walton. We get to check in with Charlie, Lane, and Ms. Birdie while learning more about Ryan and Vivian as well as meeting new characters. Ryan and Vivian each have their own painful pasts they are dealing with as well as uncertain features when they are thrown together to work on a case.

As they work together to find a killer, they are taken down various adventures that lead them to reflect upon their lives and a future with each other.

This book is one that will stay with you long after the last page. It is beautifully written to not only capture you with a story but make you reflect. Ms. Walter has quickly became one of my favorite authors!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Deadly Deceit
by Natalie Walters
Revell
Christian
Pub Date 05 Nov 2019

I am reviewing a copy of Deadly Deceit through Revell and Netgalley:

Journalist Vivian DeMarco is a tenacious and independent journalist, she is back in Walton, Georgia for one reason only that is to do her job and get out.

After her boss unexpectedly dies under suspicious circumstances, Vivian’s only hope for getting to the truth and to the next big story is Deputy Ryan Frost, the Small Town law enforcements lanky poster boy.

As they dig deeper the truth becomes more and more twisted, and Vivian finds herself fighting for not only answers but aphorism her life as well. A series of 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?

I give Deadly Deceit five out of five stars…

Happy Reading!

This book is so creepy and it’s meant to be that way. It is a story of being trapped in a nightmare and living with regrets and secrets. It reminded me of “The String” by Caleb Breakey where one man is manipulating others for his own purposes.

Despite the underlying dark tone to the mystery, the relationship between Vivian and Ryan is delightful. They are both Star Wars geeks and movie quotes abound. They tease and banter with each other. It made me laugh.

I appreciated the twists and the action. It was a very interesting read. Vivian is blessed with amazing, supportive friends and it’s fun watching her come to realize that and to start living with hope and light in her life.

Thank you to Revell for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

#DeadlyDeceit #Netgalley

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Reads. A positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts.

This story was fascinating. I enjoyed the psychological vibes strung throughout. The pacing was great, as was the setting of small-town Georgia. The journalism angle was well used, though I would have liked to see Vivian working on articles or something even while working on unraveling the mystery for the bigger piece. I thought the journalism was perfectly countered by the other lead’s being a cop. There was a natural push-pull chemistry between the news writer and the police officer, which made the romance quite believable and organic.

One plot twist—no spoilers here, don’t worry—seemed to be used mostly for a shock factor, which was disappointing rather than a shocker for me. There were zero hints or clues that I saw (even looking back on the path to get there after I was already to that moment), so it didn’t seem very logical. I’m not saying I have to figure out everything along the way; I love it when I’m surprised or shocked or whatever over good plot twists that I don’t see coming but can usually see hints of in hindsight. The surprises work better for me, however, if they don’t feel like they’re being used mostly to manipulate my emotions. This was a big moment in the story that ended up pulling me out of the climax for a few minutes when I really wanted to stay invested.

Overall, this was a great mystery. It was a good addition to the Harbored Secrets series, and it left me ready to read the finale when it comes out.

Content: one expletive, drugs, alcohol, teen prostitution (mentioned but not shown), gambling, one crude sexual term, skimpy clothing (mentioned only a couple of times)

“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 is a very well written romantic suspense. Loved the edge of your seat plot. Characters are well developed and believable.. this author is becoming one of my favorite suspense authors. I received an arc from the publisher and this is my unbiased review review.

"Deadly Deceit" is a Christian romantic suspense novel. This is the second book in a series. You don't need to read the previous book to understand this one, and this book didn't spoil the previous book.

Vivian is a kind, caring woman who pursues the truth and is willing to put herself in danger to help others. But after her father abandoned her family, she avoided forming close relationships. Ryan was also abandoned by his father, and he's reluctant to leave his mother and sister to pursue his own dreams. When Vivian's boss dies and a blackmail video is exposed, they both work to discover who is blackmailing people with their dirty secrets. Suspense was created by the relationship tensions and from the race to stop the blackmailer before more people got hurt.

Ryan felt that Vivian helped him become a better person, but at the first difficulty, he assumed that she was pursuing a story for glory when she was actually helping to protect someone. This caused conflict in the relationship. Although this ultimately strengthened the relationship as they worked through the misunderstanding, but it made me not like Ryan as much because he so easily assumed the worst about the woman he supposedly loves.

There were a few prayers to God. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable suspense novel.

I read Ms. Walters debut novel which is the first book in this series. I really enjoyed the first book and couldn’t wait to read the second. She continues to write superbly with this latest suspense novel. Deadly Deceit is absolutely fantastic and will keep you reading to discover what happens next. This book focuses on Vivian (who you meet in the previous book) who is a reporter that likes to write the truth so that justice can prevail. As Vivian realizes that there is more to the death of her boss than an accident, she begins to investigate to determine what really is going on in the small town of Walton, Georgia. Deputy Ryan Frost has just returned from training and is contemplating where he might want to work. Different agencies are recruiting him due to his cyber skills. Ryan wants to keep Vivian safe and does not want her investigating. There are many twists and turns to this book. Once I started the book, I didn’t want to put it down! I highly recommend this book and know that you will not be disappointed! This book can be read as a stand-alone book, but I recommend both books in this series.
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.