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Deception #0.5
Clever Deception
“Have you ever watched the light fade from someone’s eyes, Foxy? The pigment slowly, ever so slowly disappear?”
The press call him the Escape Artist, and he is certainly living up to his name.
Sergeant Alexandra Fox has never come up against such a devious mind in her entire career. Ten young women, seven of them wives of fellow officers, have been found tortured and murdered. Every tiny lead fizzles out, and he revels in taunting them by phone, torturing them mentally as he forces them to listen to the screams of his victims.
Alexandra, is determined to catch him before he kills again, unaware that she’s become the object of his obsession until he issues one last threat: “I thought I would give you one warning. A chance to back away and leave the investigation. Don’t make me punish you.”
The press call him the Escape Artist, and he is certainly living up to his name.
Sergeant Alexandra Fox has never come up against such a devious mind in her entire career. Ten young women, seven of them wives of fellow officers, have been found tortured and murdered. Every tiny lead fizzles out, and he revels in taunting them by phone, torturing them mentally as he forces them to listen to the screams of his victims.
Alexandra, is determined to catch him before he kills again, unaware that she’s become the object of his obsession until he issues one last threat: “I thought I would give you one warning. A chance to back away and leave the investigation. Don’t make me punish you.”
40 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2016
61 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Comley
176 books816 followersNew York Times, USA Today, Amazon Top 20 bestselling author, iBooks top 5 bestselling and #2 bestselling author on Barnes and Noble. Over one million copies sold world wide. I am a British author who moved to France in 2002, and that's when I turned my hobby into a career.
When I'm not writing crime novels I'm either reading them or going on long walks with my rescue Labrador, Dex.
I hope you enjoy reading my books, especially the Justice series, Cruel Justice, Impeding Justice, Final Justice, Foul Justice, Guaranteed Justice, Ultimate Justice, Virtual Justice, Hostile Justice, Tortured Justice, Rough Justice, Dubious Justice, Calculated Justice, Twisted Justice, Prime Justice. There are several novellas and short stories in the series too.
My other successful series are: The DI Sally Parker thriller series, which includes WRONG PLACE, NO HIDING PLACE and COLD CASE
The Hero series, TORN APART, END RESULT, IN PLAIN SIGHT and DOUBLE JEOPARDY(published by Bloodhound Books)
I have three books in the Intention series, Sole Intention, Grave Intention and Devious Intention.
I've also written a couple of standalone novels - EVIL IN DISGUISE and FOREVER WATCHING YOU.
As well as co-authoring The Caller with Tara Lyons.
And Clever Deception, Tragic Deception and Sinful Deception co-authored by fellow NY Times bestselling author Linda S Prather.
If you'd like to keep up to date with new releases you can find me on Facebook by following this link http://smarturl.it/sps7jh or sign up for my newsletter http://www.hyperurl.co/su1xnt
If you fancy a lighter read, why not try one of my romances: A Time to Heal, and A Time for Change--Based on a TRUE story. I also have a selection of short stories and novelettes available which I know you'll enjoy.
You can find out more about me at the following blogs.
http://melcomley.blogspot.com
http://melcomleyromances.blogspot.com
When I'm not writing crime novels I'm either reading them or going on long walks with my rescue Labrador, Dex.
I hope you enjoy reading my books, especially the Justice series, Cruel Justice, Impeding Justice, Final Justice, Foul Justice, Guaranteed Justice, Ultimate Justice, Virtual Justice, Hostile Justice, Tortured Justice, Rough Justice, Dubious Justice, Calculated Justice, Twisted Justice, Prime Justice. There are several novellas and short stories in the series too.
My other successful series are: The DI Sally Parker thriller series, which includes WRONG PLACE, NO HIDING PLACE and COLD CASE
The Hero series, TORN APART, END RESULT, IN PLAIN SIGHT and DOUBLE JEOPARDY(published by Bloodhound Books)
I have three books in the Intention series, Sole Intention, Grave Intention and Devious Intention.
I've also written a couple of standalone novels - EVIL IN DISGUISE and FOREVER WATCHING YOU.
As well as co-authoring The Caller with Tara Lyons.
And Clever Deception, Tragic Deception and Sinful Deception co-authored by fellow NY Times bestselling author Linda S Prather.
If you'd like to keep up to date with new releases you can find me on Facebook by following this link http://smarturl.it/sps7jh or sign up for my newsletter http://www.hyperurl.co/su1xnt
If you fancy a lighter read, why not try one of my romances: A Time to Heal, and A Time for Change--Based on a TRUE story. I also have a selection of short stories and novelettes available which I know you'll enjoy.
You can find out more about me at the following blogs.
http://melcomley.blogspot.com
http://melcomleyromances.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
September 29, 2016
This is a novella (56 pages) that introduces the readers to a new series featuring DS Sergeant Alexandra Fox.
They call him The escape Artist. He abducts, brutally tortures, rapes and then murders his victims --- mostly the wives of fellow law officers. He's smart, he's devious, he leaves no clues, no DNA. What he does do is call the police and taunt them with the victims' screams and pleas for help.
Alexandra is determined to find this monster, but then she becomes the focus of his attention. He calls her and warns her to back off the investigation or she will be sorry.
And sorry she is! He does something that will forever change the direction her life will go.
This is an exceptional beginning of a new series. It's fast paced, heart stopping action from the very first page to the very last. Alex is a well-defined character and I look forward to seeing how she grows and matures in her adventures.
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
They call him The escape Artist. He abducts, brutally tortures, rapes and then murders his victims --- mostly the wives of fellow law officers. He's smart, he's devious, he leaves no clues, no DNA. What he does do is call the police and taunt them with the victims' screams and pleas for help.
Alexandra is determined to find this monster, but then she becomes the focus of his attention. He calls her and warns her to back off the investigation or she will be sorry.
And sorry she is! He does something that will forever change the direction her life will go.
This is an exceptional beginning of a new series. It's fast paced, heart stopping action from the very first page to the very last. Alex is a well-defined character and I look forward to seeing how she grows and matures in her adventures.
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
September 4, 2016
I was given this book by M.A Comley & Linda S. Prather in exchange for an honest review.
Woooohooooo! I am absolutely over the moon to have found another series I can sink my teeth into! I absolutely adored this novella and really got a thirst for the novel (Tragic Deception) that will follow.
Set in Gloucester, a variety of themes run throughout the pages and include, but not limited to: revenge; loss; secrets; grief; pain (both physical and emotional); regret and a journey of justice which I loved!
For such a short novella, it really grabs you by the throat – the plot had me hooked and I was so absorbed in the story, I finished it on my daily commute! Eeeeeeeek! I am so excited about this series!!
Told from the third person POV, the story is filled with characters that caught my attention. The main character: Sergeant Alexandra Fox, is one I can see becoming a fast favourite of mine. Intelligent, determined, feisty but also quite high strung – her desire for justice often sees her going against protocol to achieve a means to an end. I also adored, Bob Bachelor – a colleague of Alex’s from the Murder Squad who tries to keep Alex grounded. The two have a great rapport and I am looking forward to see how their characters/relationships develop. Inspector Maurice Jordan also caught my interest. I am still not sure about whether I like him or not as he is your typical hard-nosed boss, but when confronted, he can see sense. But something still niggles about him- so I will wait and see where this leads in the novel. Oh and of course, I cannot leave out The Escape Artist!! I was totally reminded of Buffalo Bill from Silence of The Lambs with this character…and that thrilled me….as Silence of the Lambs is a favourite of mine! My curiosity was aroused and I was both repulsed and drawn to him. Absolutely brilliant!!
So if you are looking for a fast-paced, emotionally charged short story that will leave you wanting for more, I highly recommend you head over to amazon and grab yourself a copy of this cracking read stat!!
Woooohooooo! I am absolutely over the moon to have found another series I can sink my teeth into! I absolutely adored this novella and really got a thirst for the novel (Tragic Deception) that will follow.
Set in Gloucester, a variety of themes run throughout the pages and include, but not limited to: revenge; loss; secrets; grief; pain (both physical and emotional); regret and a journey of justice which I loved!
For such a short novella, it really grabs you by the throat – the plot had me hooked and I was so absorbed in the story, I finished it on my daily commute! Eeeeeeeek! I am so excited about this series!!
Told from the third person POV, the story is filled with characters that caught my attention. The main character: Sergeant Alexandra Fox, is one I can see becoming a fast favourite of mine. Intelligent, determined, feisty but also quite high strung – her desire for justice often sees her going against protocol to achieve a means to an end. I also adored, Bob Bachelor – a colleague of Alex’s from the Murder Squad who tries to keep Alex grounded. The two have a great rapport and I am looking forward to see how their characters/relationships develop. Inspector Maurice Jordan also caught my interest. I am still not sure about whether I like him or not as he is your typical hard-nosed boss, but when confronted, he can see sense. But something still niggles about him- so I will wait and see where this leads in the novel. Oh and of course, I cannot leave out The Escape Artist!! I was totally reminded of Buffalo Bill from Silence of The Lambs with this character…and that thrilled me….as Silence of the Lambs is a favourite of mine! My curiosity was aroused and I was both repulsed and drawn to him. Absolutely brilliant!!
So if you are looking for a fast-paced, emotionally charged short story that will leave you wanting for more, I highly recommend you head over to amazon and grab yourself a copy of this cracking read stat!!
October 24, 2016
This is the prequel to a series I was thinking of starting so thought I’d grab it to bring me up to speed. I’m so glad I did but probably not for the reason you think.
I am clearly in the minority according to the ratings but if you require even a shred of believability in your police procedurals, walk away.
This is a shortie that introduces DS Alex Fox. She’s part of a team hunting for a psychopathic killer who has horribly mutilated & murdered 10 women. The investigation has stalled when the news comes in another woman has been snatched…..Alex’s sister.
So I’m thinking this should be right up my alley. Um….no. I’ll list a few reasons below that may be dangerously close to *spoiler* territory so just a heads up.
First, the dialogue. It’s stiff & came across as written by non-Brits trying to fit in what they considered to be British vernacular. There’s a lot of “tut tut”, stiff upper lip stuff. When Alex learns of her sister’s abduction she threatens to track the killer down (uh….thought you are already on that) and “no one is going to effing stop me”. That’s not me cleaning up her potty mouth….that’s an actual quote. This despite the frequent use of “fuck” throughout the story.
Her colleague Bob stops just short of offering to make her tea but does repeatedly admonish her to “stay positive” because “negativity isn’t going to solve this case”. If Bob were my colleague, he’d be sporting a shiner.
There are so many procedural errors in an investigation ruled by inertia that it’s no mystery why this guy is still on the loose. Only after Alex’s sister is snatched do they look at where the 10 victims were abducted from, where they were dumped & notice a pattern. I’m sorry…what? This is explained by a character saying “it’s an area we we haven’t really covered”. By the way, most of the women are spouses of cops. I’m thinking the rest of the force would be suitably motivated to have noticed this little nugget of info after finding TEN BODIES. Meanwhile, stumbling across the latest crime scene, the first thing Alex does is completely contaminate it.
Then you have the bog standard DI who is arrogant, misogynist & perpetually dyspeptic because there are living, breathing women on his team. His dialogue & behavior is so OTT that it’s funny although I don’t think that’s what the authors were shooting for.
So yes, I’m grateful I picked this up. If I’d had to read a full length book, I might have become effing violent.
I am clearly in the minority according to the ratings but if you require even a shred of believability in your police procedurals, walk away.
This is a shortie that introduces DS Alex Fox. She’s part of a team hunting for a psychopathic killer who has horribly mutilated & murdered 10 women. The investigation has stalled when the news comes in another woman has been snatched…..Alex’s sister.
So I’m thinking this should be right up my alley. Um….no. I’ll list a few reasons below that may be dangerously close to *spoiler* territory so just a heads up.
First, the dialogue. It’s stiff & came across as written by non-Brits trying to fit in what they considered to be British vernacular. There’s a lot of “tut tut”, stiff upper lip stuff. When Alex learns of her sister’s abduction she threatens to track the killer down (uh….thought you are already on that) and “no one is going to effing stop me”. That’s not me cleaning up her potty mouth….that’s an actual quote. This despite the frequent use of “fuck” throughout the story.
Her colleague Bob stops just short of offering to make her tea but does repeatedly admonish her to “stay positive” because “negativity isn’t going to solve this case”. If Bob were my colleague, he’d be sporting a shiner.
There are so many procedural errors in an investigation ruled by inertia that it’s no mystery why this guy is still on the loose. Only after Alex’s sister is snatched do they look at where the 10 victims were abducted from, where they were dumped & notice a pattern. I’m sorry…what? This is explained by a character saying “it’s an area we we haven’t really covered”. By the way, most of the women are spouses of cops. I’m thinking the rest of the force would be suitably motivated to have noticed this little nugget of info after finding TEN BODIES. Meanwhile, stumbling across the latest crime scene, the first thing Alex does is completely contaminate it.
Then you have the bog standard DI who is arrogant, misogynist & perpetually dyspeptic because there are living, breathing women on his team. His dialogue & behavior is so OTT that it’s funny although I don’t think that’s what the authors were shooting for.
So yes, I’m grateful I picked this up. If I’d had to read a full length book, I might have become effing violent.
August 31, 2016
OMG! What a blooming brilliant novella! I took it with me to read whilst at the play barn this morning (school hols plus rain equals desperate measures!) and I absolutely loved every second of it. Mel Comley and Linda Prather are great on their own as writers but together they are amazing. Its like my love of peanut butter and my love of chocolate-on their own they are pretty good but put them together and I am in heaven!!!
Alex Fox is just a wonderful new character creation and I felt every single emotion that she was going through here. Hunting a vile and devious serial killer known as the Escape Artist, Fox has to put everything she has into solving the clues he maliciously sends her to try to prevent more abductions and work out who he is and what motive keeps on driving him.
This is a novella so didn't take much longer than an hour for me to read but now I just can't wait for the first book in the new Deception series. Be aware there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end here and hope you don't start screaming "NO!!!!! I want more now!!" like I did! This is a really great start to this new series that will, I'm sure, be a huge hit with fans of both writers and adding some new ones as well!
Many thanks to the authors for my advanced review copy in return for my unbiased review.
Alex Fox is just a wonderful new character creation and I felt every single emotion that she was going through here. Hunting a vile and devious serial killer known as the Escape Artist, Fox has to put everything she has into solving the clues he maliciously sends her to try to prevent more abductions and work out who he is and what motive keeps on driving him.
This is a novella so didn't take much longer than an hour for me to read but now I just can't wait for the first book in the new Deception series. Be aware there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end here and hope you don't start screaming "NO!!!!! I want more now!!" like I did! This is a really great start to this new series that will, I'm sure, be a huge hit with fans of both writers and adding some new ones as well!
Many thanks to the authors for my advanced review copy in return for my unbiased review.
August 25, 2016
Book heaven is when two of your favourite authors team up to write a new series together. This is what the amazing Mel Comley and Linda Prather have done with Clever Deception, a novella and the start of the Deception series.
Alex Fox is on the hunt for the Escape Artist, an evil and vicious serial killer, who has already gruesomely tortured and killed ten women.
What an exciting start to the series and I am waiting with bated breath for Tragic Deception, the first full length book, which is sure to become a massive hit.
A huge 5* and a must read.
Many thanks to Mel Comley & Linda Prather
Alex Fox is on the hunt for the Escape Artist, an evil and vicious serial killer, who has already gruesomely tortured and killed ten women.
What an exciting start to the series and I am waiting with bated breath for Tragic Deception, the first full length book, which is sure to become a massive hit.
A huge 5* and a must read.
Many thanks to Mel Comley & Linda Prather
September 2, 2016
Ooo, this definitely left me wanting more...
This is the start of a new series of book co-written by Mel Comley and Linda Prather. I am very familiar with Ms Comley's books as I have devoured and loved every one I have read. On the flip-side, Ms Prather is a new author to me but her influence is obvious and I think I am going to go check out her own books as soon as I get chance.
New series = new characters and one of the things I really love about Ms Comley's work is her characters; their interactions and banter, and the ones we are introduced to here are just as well described as previous. From what I gather, Ms Prather also writes strong women leads and I can see her influence in the characterisation here.
I think it's a great idea kicking off a series with a short story as it gets all the nitty gritty introductions and scene setting out of the way and also gives the reader a little teaser-taster into what they will be getting in the full length opener. But, be warned, there is also a cliffhanger at the end, the book does not wrap up the story... See, told you it was a teaser and I wasn't overly happy about that as I am not patient at all. I tend to get grumpy with cliff hangers that I am not aware of, but hopefully the full length series opener will be out soon enough so I can find out what happens. As it is only a short read, I will probably re-read it before I go on to the new book just as a refresher.
I think I can sum up this short as an appetiser to what looks to be a promising main course.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is the start of a new series of book co-written by Mel Comley and Linda Prather. I am very familiar with Ms Comley's books as I have devoured and loved every one I have read. On the flip-side, Ms Prather is a new author to me but her influence is obvious and I think I am going to go check out her own books as soon as I get chance.
New series = new characters and one of the things I really love about Ms Comley's work is her characters; their interactions and banter, and the ones we are introduced to here are just as well described as previous. From what I gather, Ms Prather also writes strong women leads and I can see her influence in the characterisation here.
I think it's a great idea kicking off a series with a short story as it gets all the nitty gritty introductions and scene setting out of the way and also gives the reader a little teaser-taster into what they will be getting in the full length opener. But, be warned, there is also a cliffhanger at the end, the book does not wrap up the story... See, told you it was a teaser and I wasn't overly happy about that as I am not patient at all. I tend to get grumpy with cliff hangers that I am not aware of, but hopefully the full length series opener will be out soon enough so I can find out what happens. As it is only a short read, I will probably re-read it before I go on to the new book just as a refresher.
I think I can sum up this short as an appetiser to what looks to be a promising main course.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2016
This novella is an introduction to a new series by M A COMLEY and Linda Prather and boy does it pack a punch! In the book Alex Fox is introduced and we learn her story so far. Her hunt for a vile serial killer known as the Escape Artist by the press continues in the novel Tragic Deception.
This book is an excellent starter and I can't wait for the main course! Absolutely gripping and brilliant. Highly recommended.
This book is an excellent starter and I can't wait for the main course! Absolutely gripping and brilliant. Highly recommended.
August 25, 2016
Mel Comley & Linda Prather.
Clever Deception
Novella.
This may be a short story but it's packed with drama and action from the first page. Introducing Alex Fox for the next book called Tragic Deception which will be released shortly. I love reading Mels books as well as Linda's so getting them together can only lead to brilliance, which this book is.
5* 25 August 2016.
Clever Deception
Novella.
This may be a short story but it's packed with drama and action from the first page. Introducing Alex Fox for the next book called Tragic Deception which will be released shortly. I love reading Mels books as well as Linda's so getting them together can only lead to brilliance, which this book is.
5* 25 August 2016.
August 28, 2016
I am a huge fan of Mel Comley and Linda Prather's books. I was so excited to find out they were writing a series together and I couldn't wait to get started. I was hooked from the first sentence until the end, absolutely brilliant.
September 15, 2016
Clever Deception is only a short novella but wow what a book!
Alex (Alexandra) is working on a case that ends up getting far too close for comfort. When it suddenly becomes personal, her unfeeling boss sends her home. Luckily for Alex she has a caring friend in her work colleague Bob and they decide to carry on investigating the case much to the annoyance of their boss.
Whilst this book may lack in pages, it certainly doesn’t leave it lacking in content. The authors allow you to get a feel for the characters as well as not scrimping on the action or rushing the story line. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything and by the end I got everything out of this read as I would have expected from a full length novel, maybe even more.
This literally is an edge of your seat read. For a short story it certainly packs some punches and in parts I was shocked and horrified at the truly horrific things that the killer does to his victims. It is very much a game of cat and mouse with the killer playing with the police and Alex in particular. I felt just as determined as Alex in getting justice for the poor victims and their families. This is one killer who really makes your blood boil.
Clever Deception is without a doubt a brilliant prequel that gives us a taster of what we can expect in the Deception series. Alex is a fantastic protagonist who is thirsty for justice and with a bit of a mouth on her, you can tell that things are certainly going to be interesting with her around.
A chilling yet thrilling read that is going to leave readers screaming for more.
Alex (Alexandra) is working on a case that ends up getting far too close for comfort. When it suddenly becomes personal, her unfeeling boss sends her home. Luckily for Alex she has a caring friend in her work colleague Bob and they decide to carry on investigating the case much to the annoyance of their boss.
Whilst this book may lack in pages, it certainly doesn’t leave it lacking in content. The authors allow you to get a feel for the characters as well as not scrimping on the action or rushing the story line. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything and by the end I got everything out of this read as I would have expected from a full length novel, maybe even more.
This literally is an edge of your seat read. For a short story it certainly packs some punches and in parts I was shocked and horrified at the truly horrific things that the killer does to his victims. It is very much a game of cat and mouse with the killer playing with the police and Alex in particular. I felt just as determined as Alex in getting justice for the poor victims and their families. This is one killer who really makes your blood boil.
Clever Deception is without a doubt a brilliant prequel that gives us a taster of what we can expect in the Deception series. Alex is a fantastic protagonist who is thirsty for justice and with a bit of a mouth on her, you can tell that things are certainly going to be interesting with her around.
A chilling yet thrilling read that is going to leave readers screaming for more.
September 12, 2016
I was sent an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review.
Clever Deception is the first in a new series which brings authors Linda Prather and Mel Comley together. I've read and loved quite a few of Mel Comley's books, but this is the first work I've read by Linda Prather. I do have a couple of Linda's books on my tbr list and after reading Clever Deception I will be bumping these up my list for sure!
This book is fast paced and had me hooked from the start and I finished it in an hour! The story begins with a serial killer, The Escape Artist, who is abducting and torturing women, whilst at the same time calling the police and taunting them about his escapades, will they catch him before he claims his next victim?
I love Mel's style of writing and paired with Linda's gives it another edge. I would like to thank the authors for this opportunity and will post my review on Goodreads now and on Amazon & Twitter on publication day. Can't wait to read the next in this series, Tragic Deception.
Clever Deception is the first in a new series which brings authors Linda Prather and Mel Comley together. I've read and loved quite a few of Mel Comley's books, but this is the first work I've read by Linda Prather. I do have a couple of Linda's books on my tbr list and after reading Clever Deception I will be bumping these up my list for sure!
This book is fast paced and had me hooked from the start and I finished it in an hour! The story begins with a serial killer, The Escape Artist, who is abducting and torturing women, whilst at the same time calling the police and taunting them about his escapades, will they catch him before he claims his next victim?
I love Mel's style of writing and paired with Linda's gives it another edge. I would like to thank the authors for this opportunity and will post my review on Goodreads now and on Amazon & Twitter on publication day. Can't wait to read the next in this series, Tragic Deception.
September 16, 2016
When two authors join forces, a new novella is the result, Clever Deception promises to be a huge hit with fans of M A. Comley and Linda S. Prather, who make one hell of a new writing team!. The Escape Artist is taunting the police, 10 women have been sadistically tortured and murdered, and Alexandra Fox, a feisty police sergeant is on the case, the killer has her in his sight, soon to become his latest obsession , could things get any worse?, oh yes, and the tension ups a notch when her niece goes missing, the case proves to be a bit too personal for Alex. This is a thrilling introduction to the new Deception series, a nail biting page turner, sure to leave you gasping at the sheer cruelty of the serial killer!. Tragic Deception is book no 1 in the series, Mel and Linda are my new favourite writing team, they will shock you, yet leave you in awe of their amazing talent!.
September 10, 2016
I received a copy of this book from THE Book club in exchange of an honest review.
I loved it! I have to be honest and say that I didn't know the authors until now, so I cannot compare this to their previous work. What I can say is that I read it in one sitting, loved it and I will keep following the series. I've always found novellas and short stories very interesting. Few pages to deliver emotions, sensations and reactions that sometimes it's difficult to feel even with a 200 pages book. For me they are either a hit or a miss.... And this one was clearly a hit. It gripped my attention from the very first page and I couldn't stop reading, I wanted to know more and I wanted to know the end... I will definitely recommend it and I will look into these two authors work for sure.
I loved it! I have to be honest and say that I didn't know the authors until now, so I cannot compare this to their previous work. What I can say is that I read it in one sitting, loved it and I will keep following the series. I've always found novellas and short stories very interesting. Few pages to deliver emotions, sensations and reactions that sometimes it's difficult to feel even with a 200 pages book. For me they are either a hit or a miss.... And this one was clearly a hit. It gripped my attention from the very first page and I couldn't stop reading, I wanted to know more and I wanted to know the end... I will definitely recommend it and I will look into these two authors work for sure.
September 9, 2016
The Escape Artist, as named by the Press is torturing and murdering young women. Some wives of police officers, Sergeant Fox needs to catch him before he kills even more. He taunts them over the phone, torturing them and forcing them to listen to their screams over the call.
“I thought I would give you one warning. A chance to back away and leave the investigation. Don’t make me punish you.” A direct threat to Fox.
This was a taste of things to come in Tragic Deception, awaiting me on my Kindle!
What a taste of a twisted sick killer and a kick ass female lead, a brilliant new series.
“I thought I would give you one warning. A chance to back away and leave the investigation. Don’t make me punish you.” A direct threat to Fox.
This was a taste of things to come in Tragic Deception, awaiting me on my Kindle!
What a taste of a twisted sick killer and a kick ass female lead, a brilliant new series.
September 10, 2016
Clever Deception By Linda Prather And Mel Comley is a mystery and thriller read.
“Have you ever watched the light fade from someone’s eyes, Foxy? The pigment slowly, ever so slowly disappear?”
The press call him the Escape Artist, and he is certainly living up to his name...
Wow. An absolutely fantastic read. I was on the edge of my seat. I loved it. I was trying to guess who it was. But I couldn't. i was hoping they would get him. he really got me riled up. Can't wait for next part. highly recommended. 5* although I would give more if I could. thanks to tbc on fb for the arc.
“Have you ever watched the light fade from someone’s eyes, Foxy? The pigment slowly, ever so slowly disappear?”
The press call him the Escape Artist, and he is certainly living up to his name...
Wow. An absolutely fantastic read. I was on the edge of my seat. I loved it. I was trying to guess who it was. But I couldn't. i was hoping they would get him. he really got me riled up. Can't wait for next part. highly recommended. 5* although I would give more if I could. thanks to tbc on fb for the arc.
September 14, 2016
BRILLIANT NEW SERIES BY M.A.COMLEY AND LINDA PRATHER...
I'M a very big fan of both these author's and I've read ALL there books and NEVER been disappointed. So as this a brilliant new adventure of there's I jumped at the chance. CLEVER DECEPTION Is a short story in to Alex Fox's background to gear you up for the first book called "TRAGIC DECEPTION" I'm so so excited ....You will love it I did !!!!
I'M a very big fan of both these author's and I've read ALL there books and NEVER been disappointed. So as this a brilliant new adventure of there's I jumped at the chance. CLEVER DECEPTION Is a short story in to Alex Fox's background to gear you up for the first book called "TRAGIC DECEPTION" I'm so so excited ....You will love it I did !!!!
September 4, 2016
I was given this by the authors in exchange for an honest and open review.
What a fantastic book!
I've read most of Mel Comley's books and some of Linda Prather's books. What a partnership they make!
Alex Fox is a strong character who's not afraid to say what she thinks and I look forward to learning more about her. America won't know what's hit them when she arrives.
All I can say is I can't wait for 1st October to continue the story.
What a fantastic book!
I've read most of Mel Comley's books and some of Linda Prather's books. What a partnership they make!
Alex Fox is a strong character who's not afraid to say what she thinks and I look forward to learning more about her. America won't know what's hit them when she arrives.
All I can say is I can't wait for 1st October to continue the story.
September 10, 2016
I am grateful to the authors for a copy of this excellent novella which signals big things for a new series. I love Mel Comley's writing and teaming up with Linda Prather has done nothing to change how good I think she is. Although this is a shortish story the characters lose nothing in their depth, the storyline moves at a good speed and the ending leaves us hanging desperately wanting another instalment!
September 14, 2016
Wow! What a novella... My heart raced the entire time I was reading it. I picked it up to start a few pages but then couldn't put it down until I'd finished it.
What a story and what a tease. This is the best novella I've read - roll on book one, I'm super excited to read this new series. I think we could have villain of the year here!
What a story and what a tease. This is the best novella I've read - roll on book one, I'm super excited to read this new series. I think we could have villain of the year here!
September 9, 2016
First my thanks to TBC and the authors Mel Comley & Lynda Prather for allowing me to review this novella in return for an honest review.
Well what can I say except it was fantastic, even though it's only a short novella it really packed a punch. This was a massive five stars from me and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Well what can I say except it was fantastic, even though it's only a short novella it really packed a punch. This was a massive five stars from me and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
October 9, 2016
Great beginning to new series.
Why sergeant Alexandra came to American and joined NYPD is explained in this short story. Very capable, hard working Alex trying to stop the gruesome murders of young woman. Last one is her only sister Scarlet by this cold, calculating and callous evil.
Why sergeant Alexandra came to American and joined NYPD is explained in this short story. Very capable, hard working Alex trying to stop the gruesome murders of young woman. Last one is her only sister Scarlet by this cold, calculating and callous evil.
September 14, 2016
Two brilliant authors, Mel Comley and Linda Prather (no less), have joined forces to produce an exciting new hard-boiled crime series. The first instalment is Clever Deception, a novella in which we get to meet the two central characters of this series - the headstrong and determined Detective Sergeant Alex Fox and her nemesis, the elusive and notorious serial killer dubbed The Escape Artist.
The Escape Artist is on the rampage, torturing and murdering women without leaving any trace evidence. This book immediately kicks off with a frightening scene. The killer's latest victim is in his grasp, pleading for her life. While slowly torturing his victims, the killer likes to phone the police, taunting them on their inability to catch him while they helplessly hear the poor women's screams of pain and anguish.
"Don't make me punish you."
DS Alex Fox is part of the team investigating these murders, headed by the obnoxious DI Jordan. When the killer contacts her directly, Alex knows that she's in his crosshairs, but she's not ready to back off. She's determined to get him, but at what cost? She couldn't even start to imagine the punishment The Escape Artist had in store for her.
The characters in this book are all very realistic and well-portrayed and I felt an immediate close affinity with Alex Fox. It's as if I've known her for ages. I could feel her pain, anguish, panic and frustrations, but felt helpless as I couldn't help her.
Reading this novella made me feel as if someone was squeezing my throat... literally. From start to finish it is very fast-paced and the suspense just keeps increasing until we reach a very dramatic ending which honestly left me exhausted, emotional, sad, angry and yearning for more... The story certainly continues... but now I just can't wait to see how!
If this novella is anything to go by, then we're in for a fantastic treat by these two fab authors as the next novels are published. I really enjoyed this novella and would highly recommend it.
With thanks to the authors for an ARC of this book.
The Escape Artist is on the rampage, torturing and murdering women without leaving any trace evidence. This book immediately kicks off with a frightening scene. The killer's latest victim is in his grasp, pleading for her life. While slowly torturing his victims, the killer likes to phone the police, taunting them on their inability to catch him while they helplessly hear the poor women's screams of pain and anguish.
"Don't make me punish you."
DS Alex Fox is part of the team investigating these murders, headed by the obnoxious DI Jordan. When the killer contacts her directly, Alex knows that she's in his crosshairs, but she's not ready to back off. She's determined to get him, but at what cost? She couldn't even start to imagine the punishment The Escape Artist had in store for her.
The characters in this book are all very realistic and well-portrayed and I felt an immediate close affinity with Alex Fox. It's as if I've known her for ages. I could feel her pain, anguish, panic and frustrations, but felt helpless as I couldn't help her.
Reading this novella made me feel as if someone was squeezing my throat... literally. From start to finish it is very fast-paced and the suspense just keeps increasing until we reach a very dramatic ending which honestly left me exhausted, emotional, sad, angry and yearning for more... The story certainly continues... but now I just can't wait to see how!
If this novella is anything to go by, then we're in for a fantastic treat by these two fab authors as the next novels are published. I really enjoyed this novella and would highly recommend it.
With thanks to the authors for an ARC of this book.
September 25, 2016
What a prequel! There isn't much more I can add than to the plotline than is already covered in the synopsis (no spoilers here!) - but what I can say is that the prologue is horrific, Clever Deception grabs you from the get go and does not let you go until the very last sentence!
As you'd expect with a novella, the pace is fast and relentless however it really works, it is well formulated and plotted out for the right combination of confusion and tension. At points I'm not sure I took a breath and my first thought when I finished this was 'Wow!'. My second thought was 'when is the first book of the series out?' then headed off to Amazon to preorder (Tragic Deception on the 1st October in case you were wondering!).
I'm not usually a big fan of short stories, but I do like them when they are prequels or .5 books in amongst a series and this one has certainly worked to set the scene for the series and to introduce the main character; the lovely, ballsy Alex Fox. I've not read any books by Linda S. Prather before however I have read The Caller that Comley co-wrote with Tara Lyons and the same gritty, fast paced narrative exudes from this novella. Similarly to The Caller, there is no sign that this was co-written as it flows perfectly.
Loved it and look forward to where the Deception series takes Alex Fox.
As you'd expect with a novella, the pace is fast and relentless however it really works, it is well formulated and plotted out for the right combination of confusion and tension. At points I'm not sure I took a breath and my first thought when I finished this was 'Wow!'. My second thought was 'when is the first book of the series out?' then headed off to Amazon to preorder (Tragic Deception on the 1st October in case you were wondering!).
I'm not usually a big fan of short stories, but I do like them when they are prequels or .5 books in amongst a series and this one has certainly worked to set the scene for the series and to introduce the main character; the lovely, ballsy Alex Fox. I've not read any books by Linda S. Prather before however I have read The Caller that Comley co-wrote with Tara Lyons and the same gritty, fast paced narrative exudes from this novella. Similarly to The Caller, there is no sign that this was co-written as it flows perfectly.
Loved it and look forward to where the Deception series takes Alex Fox.
September 14, 2016
I haven't read any books by these authors, but I will certainly look into the full length novels of the series.
It's short and in my view could have been longer, I was begging for more insight into the villain and the reason for the choice of victim. That's personal preference though, so don't let this deter you from having a read.
It's cram packed from the start!
It's short and in my view could have been longer, I was begging for more insight into the villain and the reason for the choice of victim. That's personal preference though, so don't let this deter you from having a read.
It's cram packed from the start!
September 14, 2016
A fab novella, introducing us to a new series collaboration between Mel Comley and Linda Prather.
This book was fast paced, with a story line which ensured I read it in one sitting!
Loving DS Alex Fox, and looking forward to reading the next in the series and finding out more about her.
Thank you to TBC for an honest review in exchange for an honest review.
This book was fast paced, with a story line which ensured I read it in one sitting!
Loving DS Alex Fox, and looking forward to reading the next in the series and finding out more about her.
Thank you to TBC for an honest review in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2016
Clever Deception kicks off with a horrifying prologue. A gut wrenching start is the sign of something good to come.
OMG who is the Escape Artist?!?!? He's a man in the know!!! Watching Alex from the shadows?? Can not wait for Tragic Deception to find out if he is caught!!
I really didn't like DI Jordan. He didn't appear for long but for me it was long enough to take a dislike to the man. Alex I loved! She's a tenacious gut-following detective and she's suppressed by a boss looking blinkeredly ahead. This novella suggests she's got skills to be exposed and used for the good of the police force, this girl could go far!!
I've read offerings from both Ms Comley and Prather and I've thoroughly enjoyed what I read. Admittedly I've read more from Mel Comley but in reading Clever Deception I got the presence from Linda S Prather and I really want to read what happens next in the series !!
As with many novellas and short stories, this ebook covers a lot of ground making you feel like you've read a lot more than the 56 pages you've got.
A big thank you to Mel Comley and Linda Prather for giving me a copy of Clever Deception to read and review.
OMG who is the Escape Artist?!?!? He's a man in the know!!! Watching Alex from the shadows?? Can not wait for Tragic Deception to find out if he is caught!!
I really didn't like DI Jordan. He didn't appear for long but for me it was long enough to take a dislike to the man. Alex I loved! She's a tenacious gut-following detective and she's suppressed by a boss looking blinkeredly ahead. This novella suggests she's got skills to be exposed and used for the good of the police force, this girl could go far!!
I've read offerings from both Ms Comley and Prather and I've thoroughly enjoyed what I read. Admittedly I've read more from Mel Comley but in reading Clever Deception I got the presence from Linda S Prather and I really want to read what happens next in the series !!
As with many novellas and short stories, this ebook covers a lot of ground making you feel like you've read a lot more than the 56 pages you've got.
A big thank you to Mel Comley and Linda Prather for giving me a copy of Clever Deception to read and review.
September 18, 2016
Clever Deception
What a fantastic novella by two blooming brilliant authors!
I really enjoyed Clever Deception and devoured it in one action packed sitting! I'm hooked now and can't wait for the rest of the series - I'll be first in the queue.
Sergeant Alexandra Fox is determined to catch the serial killer who is at large, killing young women. Her determination is increased once she realises that she has become the object of his obsessions.
I really think that Alex is a great new character, I felt her pain, her emotion and her steely conviction to catch this killer who will get under your skin, guaranteed! Be prepared for a cliffhanger at the end, it will have you screaming in frustration for more!
With massive thanks to TBC and the authors for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
5* from me
What a fantastic novella by two blooming brilliant authors!
I really enjoyed Clever Deception and devoured it in one action packed sitting! I'm hooked now and can't wait for the rest of the series - I'll be first in the queue.
Sergeant Alexandra Fox is determined to catch the serial killer who is at large, killing young women. Her determination is increased once she realises that she has become the object of his obsessions.
I really think that Alex is a great new character, I felt her pain, her emotion and her steely conviction to catch this killer who will get under your skin, guaranteed! Be prepared for a cliffhanger at the end, it will have you screaming in frustration for more!
With massive thanks to TBC and the authors for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
5* from me
October 30, 2016
Clever Deception drew me in immediately I started reading it, although had to quickly pass over some of the more horrific images of the work of the villain, known as the Escape Artist! I loved the character of Alex, who is drawn well, and is a strong woman with a great sense of justice – a feature I have come to expect from Ms Comley. Alex is no saint, but the person you would want on your side if you were in trouble.
I hadn’t noticed that it was a Novella, so I was distraught when it finished, as I do like loose ends to be sewn up at the end of a book. I soon realised, however, that this was a prequel to a whole new series of books, and I couldn’t wait to jump straight into the first in the series ‘proper’ – Tragic Deception. I can see that Ms Comley and Ms Prather are going to be a formidable writing team.
5*’s all the way from me!
I hadn’t noticed that it was a Novella, so I was distraught when it finished, as I do like loose ends to be sewn up at the end of a book. I soon realised, however, that this was a prequel to a whole new series of books, and I couldn’t wait to jump straight into the first in the series ‘proper’ – Tragic Deception. I can see that Ms Comley and Ms Prather are going to be a formidable writing team.
5*’s all the way from me!
August 25, 2016
I had high expectations for Clever Deception. M. A. Comley and Linda Prather teamed up to write the books in this series and alone they are wonderful writers, together they are going to knock our socks off. M. A. Comley and Linda Prather not only filled my high expectations they went above and beyond. They bring us to a very difficult and heinous case and a detective who is determined to solve it, works tirelessly trying to do so. She finds herself wrapped up in the case in more ways than one. I am in love with Alex Fox and I know you will feel the same. I am ready to follow her wherever she goes and I am so proud of the writers. Amazing, job well done!
August 31, 2016
This little book is a huge surprise of thrills and chills. I should have known that by the two authors--Prather and Comley don't hold anything back. Their books are filled with gruesome killings, serial killers, twists and turns and situations that make me hold my breath, and this one tops all of the others. If you haven't seen the video clip for this, please do. It captures the whole atmosphere of this novella, sending goosebumps up and down your spine. An amazing collaboration between the two of these authors and I can't wait to see what else they have in store for us. Absolutely brilliant!
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