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Grace deHaviland #1
Fatal Destiny
For bounty hunter Grace deHaviland, the job seemed simple. Track down Barry Keegan, a white collar defendant in a corporate embezzlement scandal who'd jumped bail. How hard could that be?
But the case turns deadly when Keegan's co-defendant ends up murdered, and Grace's best friend, sheriff's deputy Suzie Jensen, is nearly killed.
Drawn into a web of deception involving stolen mob money, old scores, and ruthless hit men, Grace must track down the elusive Keegan--a man who is far more dangerous than anyone could have guessed--while she tries to protect his wife and son from a past they thought was long dead and buried.
But the case turns deadly when Keegan's co-defendant ends up murdered, and Grace's best friend, sheriff's deputy Suzie Jensen, is nearly killed.
Drawn into a web of deception involving stolen mob money, old scores, and ruthless hit men, Grace must track down the elusive Keegan--a man who is far more dangerous than anyone could have guessed--while she tries to protect his wife and son from a past they thought was long dead and buried.
- GenresMystery
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2011
305 people are currently reading
450 people want to read
About the author
David DeLee
70 books41 followersDavid DeLee is the award winning author of the Grace deHaviland Bounty Hunter series, including the novels Fatal Destiny, Pin Money, With Intent to Deceive, and Take Down. David's also written many short stories featuring Grace, most notably Bling, Bling, which appeared in the anthology The Rich and the Dead edited by Nelson DeMille, and Fatal Tryst, an audio version of which is available for free from Crime City Central http://crimecitycentral.com/crime-cit...
David's other work includes the novel Crystal White which SUSPENSE MAGAZINE called "...a dark portrayal of the evil that men--and women--can do.", the second Nick Lafferty novel Out of the Game,and a collection of short stories that can be found in Murder, Mayhem & Mystery: An Omnibus of Crime Fiction.
David is a member of the Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers. He holds a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice and is a former licensed private investigator. A native New Yorker, David currently resides in New Hampshire.
For more information be sure to check out his website at www.daviddelee-author.com and his publisher's website - www.darkroadpub.com
David's other work includes the novel Crystal White which SUSPENSE MAGAZINE called "...a dark portrayal of the evil that men--and women--can do.", the second Nick Lafferty novel Out of the Game,and a collection of short stories that can be found in Murder, Mayhem & Mystery: An Omnibus of Crime Fiction.
David is a member of the Mystery Writers of America and International Thriller Writers. He holds a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice and is a former licensed private investigator. A native New Yorker, David currently resides in New Hampshire.
For more information be sure to check out his website at www.daviddelee-author.com and his publisher's website - www.darkroadpub.com
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 1, 2020
Full review: https://girlswithguns.org/fatal-desti...
deHavilland has so much baggage, she would probably need a moving van to go get coffee in the morning. As well as her time with the police, her mother was raped and killed by her boyfriend, and she has massive trust issues as a result. The cop in charge of the case is also a former lover of Grace’s. And yet, she’s so incredibly rich she has multiple tricked-out cars, and operates out of a massive, sprawling factory which would put Wayne Industries to shame. It even has an “Olympic-sized swimming pool”. On the second floor. I was distracted for quite a bit by figuring out how that worked, considering such a pool contains over 2,750 tons of water. It’s all just too much. And that’s not even mentioning her mixed Hispanic-Irish heritage, or her gratuitous pet monkey called Trouble.
deHavilland has so much baggage, she would probably need a moving van to go get coffee in the morning. As well as her time with the police, her mother was raped and killed by her boyfriend, and she has massive trust issues as a result. The cop in charge of the case is also a former lover of Grace’s. And yet, she’s so incredibly rich she has multiple tricked-out cars, and operates out of a massive, sprawling factory which would put Wayne Industries to shame. It even has an “Olympic-sized swimming pool”. On the second floor. I was distracted for quite a bit by figuring out how that worked, considering such a pool contains over 2,750 tons of water. It’s all just too much. And that’s not even mentioning her mixed Hispanic-Irish heritage, or her gratuitous pet monkey called Trouble.
February 27, 2017
Fatal Destiny by David DeLee is the first book in the Grace deHaviland bounty hunter series. An action oriented book right from the start, it is sure to satisfy the thirst of every thriller enthusiast. Without any delay, let's get down to my take on the book, shall we?
Grace deHaviland, an ex cop, is now a bounty hunter whose case is to find a Barry Keegan, who has jumped bail and is absconding. That's what Grace does, that too with confidence but when a co-defendant of the case is found murdered, things take a nasty turn. Grace, along with her close friend, Suzie (a cop), realize the situation is not as simple as it seems. Barry Keegan, on the other hand, has a sole motive. Leave the city with his wife and child, leaving behind the false charges he is being accused of and also, his past demons. Grace's job was to hand Keegan over but when he brutally attacks Suzie, she is hell bent on finding him, even at the risk of being arrested.
Grace deHailand is the main character and she is a strong one. A female bounty hunter who does her job with ease and kick ass style. I loved her! The character is so real because she also displays her weaknesses, her emotional side. Barry Keegan comes off as a bold and stubborn character who can't have his family at risk. He wants to save them by all means. Along with the other supporting characters, the story takes a complete shape.
Fatal Destiny is a fast, action packed thriller. With Grace, the reader is taken along an intriguing ride of strange happenings. It is an absorbing story with never a dull moment. The narrative is excellent, fast paced and gripping. With the inclusion of some twists and turns, it is a good thriller that will not allow you to put the book down.
A recommended read for mystery/thriller lovers.
Grace deHaviland, an ex cop, is now a bounty hunter whose case is to find a Barry Keegan, who has jumped bail and is absconding. That's what Grace does, that too with confidence but when a co-defendant of the case is found murdered, things take a nasty turn. Grace, along with her close friend, Suzie (a cop), realize the situation is not as simple as it seems. Barry Keegan, on the other hand, has a sole motive. Leave the city with his wife and child, leaving behind the false charges he is being accused of and also, his past demons. Grace's job was to hand Keegan over but when he brutally attacks Suzie, she is hell bent on finding him, even at the risk of being arrested.
Grace deHailand is the main character and she is a strong one. A female bounty hunter who does her job with ease and kick ass style. I loved her! The character is so real because she also displays her weaknesses, her emotional side. Barry Keegan comes off as a bold and stubborn character who can't have his family at risk. He wants to save them by all means. Along with the other supporting characters, the story takes a complete shape.
Fatal Destiny is a fast, action packed thriller. With Grace, the reader is taken along an intriguing ride of strange happenings. It is an absorbing story with never a dull moment. The narrative is excellent, fast paced and gripping. With the inclusion of some twists and turns, it is a good thriller that will not allow you to put the book down.
A recommended read for mystery/thriller lovers.
October 13, 2019
I like strong women characters, but too often a writer goes too far and the character comes across as hard-ass, a character who out-Rambos Rambo. Those characters always seem a little unrealistic to me. DeLee’s Grace deHaviland comes close to that.
I also have a problem buying into characters who seem to have more money than is realistic. DeLee’s deHaviland has that. She owns 5 different vehicles and block-filling 3-story ex-factory she’s converted into her home and office. She also wears a thousand-dollar leather jacket she throws it away after it’s damaged as if it’s someone’s cast-off she picked up for $20 at the Salvation Army store. Anybody who wears that expensive a jacket to take down a bail jumper will never be a candidate for a Mensa membership.
Along those lines, all the ‘good’ characters dress like they own stock in a dozen high-end clothing companies. A bit of advice, Mr. DeLee: Not everyone dresses like they’re participating in Fashion Week. And along a similar line, too much description gets boring. Second bit of advice, Mr. DeLee: We don’t need an in-depth description of everything.
On the plus side, DeLee sets the story in Columbus, OH instead of LA or NYC. Any time an author does that it makes a refreshing change from those over-used cities.
DeLee also puts Grace in enough jams through mistakes of her own making to make her more realistic than those characters who are always one step ahead of the bad guys.
I do have a question for Mr. DeLee: What is an incumbent bike?
The story was good enough that I’ll read more of they come my way but won’t hunt them intensely.
I also have a problem buying into characters who seem to have more money than is realistic. DeLee’s deHaviland has that. She owns 5 different vehicles and block-filling 3-story ex-factory she’s converted into her home and office. She also wears a thousand-dollar leather jacket she throws it away after it’s damaged as if it’s someone’s cast-off she picked up for $20 at the Salvation Army store. Anybody who wears that expensive a jacket to take down a bail jumper will never be a candidate for a Mensa membership.
Along those lines, all the ‘good’ characters dress like they own stock in a dozen high-end clothing companies. A bit of advice, Mr. DeLee: Not everyone dresses like they’re participating in Fashion Week. And along a similar line, too much description gets boring. Second bit of advice, Mr. DeLee: We don’t need an in-depth description of everything.
On the plus side, DeLee sets the story in Columbus, OH instead of LA or NYC. Any time an author does that it makes a refreshing change from those over-used cities.
DeLee also puts Grace in enough jams through mistakes of her own making to make her more realistic than those characters who are always one step ahead of the bad guys.
I do have a question for Mr. DeLee: What is an incumbent bike?
The story was good enough that I’ll read more of they come my way but won’t hunt them intensely.
March 11, 2017
Grace deHaviland is a bounty hunger and a very good one. Although, there seems to be a certain amount of chaos that happend to follow in her wake, which says something. This day, she is hot on the trail of Barry Keegan, an accountant for a pharmaceutical company. The CEO, CFO, and Keegan have been accused of securities fraud. When CEO Wainwright is murdered, Keegan is accused and Grace finds herself way too close for comfort.
Not everyone enjoys Grace’s acquaintance. She’s defensive, abrasive, and usually ‘all work’. Since everyone appears to be in pursuit of Keegan, Grace decides to keep as low a profile as possible, hoping info will jump into her lap. Finally, she meets Keegan’s wife, Molly, and their son, Sean. Molly is very protective of her husband and son. While Grace tries to talk Molly into encouraging Keegan to turn himself over to Grace, they are unpleasantly surprised by two thugs rushing into the yard and shooting at them. They want Keegan, but will settle for Molly and Sean. Good thing Grace is there to help them escape.
After putting them in police custody, Grace realizes that she is getting closer and closer to Keegan. When she finally catches up to him, he beats her soundly and threatens her life. He leaves Grace lying in a heap in the dust, wishing she didn’t have such a bad headache. Keegan is running from more than just Grace, and as she continues to delve into his past, she discovers that he has been a very bad man. She wonders if she can catch him and keep his family safe at the same time.
This is a fairly entertaining story. There’s plenty of action and good characters. However, I am a long time fan of Stephanie Plum books and this is far too similar for me to judge this book without wondering what bounty hunter Stephanie Plum would do. I also found that Grace could use a better sense of humor or maybe it is the author’s writing that could use some. It could be that this book is way better than I think, just because I cannot stop comparing it. I leave it up to you and encourage you to find out for yourself.
Nevertheless, here’s the grading:
Genre and general reading age – Action for older teens and adults.
Level of sexuality – Low.
Is there graphic language? Not much.
Was it sad enough to cry? No.
Was it funny enough to laugh? No.
Level of character development – None.
Is this part of a series? Indeed, it is. Grace deHaviland Bounty Hunter series.
Overall, I give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
Not everyone enjoys Grace’s acquaintance. She’s defensive, abrasive, and usually ‘all work’. Since everyone appears to be in pursuit of Keegan, Grace decides to keep as low a profile as possible, hoping info will jump into her lap. Finally, she meets Keegan’s wife, Molly, and their son, Sean. Molly is very protective of her husband and son. While Grace tries to talk Molly into encouraging Keegan to turn himself over to Grace, they are unpleasantly surprised by two thugs rushing into the yard and shooting at them. They want Keegan, but will settle for Molly and Sean. Good thing Grace is there to help them escape.
After putting them in police custody, Grace realizes that she is getting closer and closer to Keegan. When she finally catches up to him, he beats her soundly and threatens her life. He leaves Grace lying in a heap in the dust, wishing she didn’t have such a bad headache. Keegan is running from more than just Grace, and as she continues to delve into his past, she discovers that he has been a very bad man. She wonders if she can catch him and keep his family safe at the same time.
This is a fairly entertaining story. There’s plenty of action and good characters. However, I am a long time fan of Stephanie Plum books and this is far too similar for me to judge this book without wondering what bounty hunter Stephanie Plum would do. I also found that Grace could use a better sense of humor or maybe it is the author’s writing that could use some. It could be that this book is way better than I think, just because I cannot stop comparing it. I leave it up to you and encourage you to find out for yourself.
Nevertheless, here’s the grading:
Genre and general reading age – Action for older teens and adults.
Level of sexuality – Low.
Is there graphic language? Not much.
Was it sad enough to cry? No.
Was it funny enough to laugh? No.
Level of character development – None.
Is this part of a series? Indeed, it is. Grace deHaviland Bounty Hunter series.
Overall, I give it ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
March 12, 2021
Grace deHaviland is a head-strong bounty hunter, but probably the best in the business. When she runs into a baffling case, she needs all her wits and determination to find her bail jumper. But along the way many people get hurt, including herself and her best friend, Suzie. There are many backstories of both Grace and her nemesis, Barry Keegan, aka Danny Sullivan. There are also old wounds from Grace's time as a Columbus cop. A few old friends, one of which seems to enjoy making life difficult for Grace.
There are plenty of surprises in this story, and it is easy to read. However, the poor decision-making of Grace and Suzie is unbelievable for two women who otherwise seem to be very intelligent. That fact made it difficult to always take this story seriously. Just a little too far-fetched. Otherwise it would had gotten 5 stars from me.
There are plenty of surprises in this story, and it is easy to read. However, the poor decision-making of Grace and Suzie is unbelievable for two women who otherwise seem to be very intelligent. That fact made it difficult to always take this story seriously. Just a little too far-fetched. Otherwise it would had gotten 5 stars from me.
February 11, 2020
I didn’t think I was going to like this book.
Like I said I didn’t think I’d like this book I not only liked it I loved it. The premise is a rich bounty has hunter, but a female as well. (A little bit of a spoiler here) she gets beat up in the first few pages. But when all is said and done she does have a heart and a pretty big one at that. This was definitely a good read and I definitely recommend it. If you like cross between Bourne and Stephenie Plum you are in luck cuz Grace de Haviland is your girl!
Like I said I didn’t think I’d like this book I not only liked it I loved it. The premise is a rich bounty has hunter, but a female as well. (A little bit of a spoiler here) she gets beat up in the first few pages. But when all is said and done she does have a heart and a pretty big one at that. This was definitely a good read and I definitely recommend it. If you like cross between Bourne and Stephenie Plum you are in luck cuz Grace de Haviland is your girl!
September 30, 2018
What a Ride!
Fatal Destiny by David DeLee keeps you on the edge of your seat. Even when tried to guess the next move, he gooled me. I dare not let any details out, you have to read it for yourself.
I respect the character Grace, she is edgy, sexy but she is real. Give this book a read, you won't regret it!
Fatal Destiny by David DeLee keeps you on the edge of your seat. Even when tried to guess the next move, he gooled me. I dare not let any details out, you have to read it for yourself.
I respect the character Grace, she is edgy, sexy but she is real. Give this book a read, you won't regret it!
December 3, 2018
I enjoyed and liked the book to the core. Why? Because this book has all the elements to be cherished. Be it the attracting front cover or the genre of this story. The tightly woven plot is enough to keep the readers at the edge of their seat. Overall presentation is commendable. Would like to recommend this one. Thank you.
October 15, 2022
A kick ass introduction to Grace.
Grace is an ex deputy Sheriff turned PI and a damn good one at that. When she is given a high profile man to bring in at considerable reward to herself, she goes for it. But it is not as simple as it seemed and then the fun begins. No spoilers!!
Just a good rip roaring read from start to finish. Have to read some more from this series now.
Grace is an ex deputy Sheriff turned PI and a damn good one at that. When she is given a high profile man to bring in at considerable reward to herself, she goes for it. But it is not as simple as it seemed and then the fun begins. No spoilers!!
Just a good rip roaring read from start to finish. Have to read some more from this series now.
April 23, 2018
Great story, enjoyable fast reading, Grace is terrific
Great story, enjoyable fast reading, Grace is terrific. Grace deHaviland, Bounty Hunter, works quickly to uncover Bail Jumpers and usually beats the authorities.
Great story, enjoyable fast reading, Grace is terrific. Grace deHaviland, Bounty Hunter, works quickly to uncover Bail Jumpers and usually beats the authorities.
August 8, 2018
Chasing down an account can't be that bad.
A really good story that has a lot of shifts back and forth. More than one story in this story. All coming together to make for an exciting finish.
A really good story that has a lot of shifts back and forth. More than one story in this story. All coming together to make for an exciting finish.
July 22, 2018
I like this one better than three stars, not quite four, but I'm difficult to please. Bottom line, I like this story, interesting characters, protagonist and antagonist, and plotline. I'll read more of this author.
March 25, 2021
Fatal
Grace is brazen takes no as a yes and backs up her actions as she sees for. She is animated and knows that she can cross over any boundary and get her bounty.
Enjoyable book, fast read and shows both sides of her character
Grace is brazen takes no as a yes and backs up her actions as she sees for. She is animated and knows that she can cross over any boundary and get her bounty.
Enjoyable book, fast read and shows both sides of her character
July 4, 2021
This was not bad, but I think the author can improve.
Some of the time I didn't really like the main character. She came across as being a crass lowlife sometimes.
I have some others by this author on my Kindle and will try them to see if things improve.
Some of the time I didn't really like the main character. She came across as being a crass lowlife sometimes.
I have some others by this author on my Kindle and will try them to see if things improve.
September 26, 2024
A good introduction to the life and times of Grace deHaviland bounty hunter. What looked like a simple quick and clean job ended up with more twists and turns and pretty good body count. Good character development like to learn more about her time with the police hopefully in later books.
May 6, 2018
Grace kicks
Wow, what a great new series. I can’t wait to see what Grace does next. She is as tough as nails, but has a sweet side.
Wow, what a great new series. I can’t wait to see what Grace does next. She is as tough as nails, but has a sweet side.
December 31, 2018
Hard to put down.
You have to read on as you get so involved you have to see what is going to happen next.
You have to read on as you get so involved you have to see what is going to happen next.
April 29, 2019
I have found another series I will be reading soon. This ex-cop turned PI will leave you wanting more.
March 29, 2021
great read
July 10, 2021
Excellent thriller. Lots of action.
June 12, 2014
Grace deHaviland, a bounty hunter in pursuit of a white-collar bail jumper, finds herself entwined in a complicated mess full of mystery and intrigue. What should be a slam-dunk catch for Grace turns into a dangerous pursuit of a man that desperately wants to protect his family and escape his past, and he’ll do anything to achieve that, including kill if necessary. There are quite a few twists and turns that keep you reading late into the night. The characters are vibrant and well thought out, as is the story itself. Although there were quite a few typos that were a bit distracting (nothing a good proof-reader couldn't resolve), the pace was everything I look for in a good thriller/suspense story and definitely leaves me wanting more!
This book was provided to me for free for an honest and unbiased review (see all our reviews at http://www.bookexplosions.com/)
This book was provided to me for free for an honest and unbiased review (see all our reviews at http://www.bookexplosions.com/)
January 14, 2015
★★★★★
An action packed thriller.
Grace de Haviland is a bounty hunter,.private investigator and a disgraced deputy sheriff. She has been asked to bring in an accountant that is involved in a huge fraud case. There is a time limit but also good pay out. An accountant shouldn't be too much trouble. Before Grace even starts on the case someone is murdered. Now her search has got a lot more dangerous. The D.A. and the cops all warn her to keep out of it, but that's not going to happen.
This story doesn't give you chance to draw breath. It is non stop action, with bullets flying and beatings. A scary car chase and emotional ending.
Grace has a wonderful room mate called Trouble, who is so devoted to her.
This is a book that will easily grown into a good series. I look forward to reading more.
An action packed thriller.
Grace de Haviland is a bounty hunter,.private investigator and a disgraced deputy sheriff. She has been asked to bring in an accountant that is involved in a huge fraud case. There is a time limit but also good pay out. An accountant shouldn't be too much trouble. Before Grace even starts on the case someone is murdered. Now her search has got a lot more dangerous. The D.A. and the cops all warn her to keep out of it, but that's not going to happen.
This story doesn't give you chance to draw breath. It is non stop action, with bullets flying and beatings. A scary car chase and emotional ending.
Grace has a wonderful room mate called Trouble, who is so devoted to her.
This is a book that will easily grown into a good series. I look forward to reading more.
January 19, 2015
There's been female bounty hunters before, but never one that was rich and didn't need the money, did it for other reasons. On the other hand, it seems like every woman who became a cop did it because their mother had been killed and no one was investigating. And of course she has to have friends still on the force, as well as enemies, among them an ex/again lover. So while I didn't find anything new here, the writing, particularly the descriptions of Columbus as well as her fortress of solitude--complete with monkey--make this a worthwhile read.
August 16, 2014
Fatal Destiny is a must-read. The concept is excellent. The characterization and plot keep the pages turning. Right from the start, the author plunges us into the action. If you’re up for a thriller, this book is for you. I rate this book a five-star read.
March 29, 2013
So far the book seems interesting. I like the main character and would like to read more to learn more about her. I can't wait to read the rest of the book.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews