Serial Heat - Emilie Haney Former cop turned Private Investigator, Clancy Sullivan, is on the case to find yet another missing girl. After his last investigation ended badly, he’s determined this time will be different. Dispatcher and aspiring forensic artist Willa Martin won’t give up the hope that her friend Anna will be found—alive. All clues point to the fact that she’s run off, leaving Willa and her new found faith behind, but Willa knows better. Following a lead in the drought-ridden wilderness of Washington State, Clancy stumbles upon a dead body unconnected to his case. Little does he know that when his 911 call connects to Willa, a chain of events is set into motion that will draw them toward one another but also toward a killer. Thrown together in a race against the clock, Clancy and Willa battle through wildfires and misdirection as they chase a killer through the heat of summer.
Art of Deception - Cara Putman 8 years ago she ran to safety. Now Charlotte Montgomery’s past has caught up with her. Artist Charlotte Montgomery lost everything eight years ago to protect her son. She’s built a safe life to protect him, and now her past has caught up with her She’ll do anything to bring down her ex. When an Italian crime family reappears in her life determined to make her participate in their money-laundering scheme, she’s determined to end it even if it means pretending she’s a willing participant. When Charlotte's past and present collide, it threatens everything she’s built and it’s a race to survive.
Real Justice - Katy Lee Her days of hiding are over. A ransom note left in her apartment tells Christina Depalo that changing her name and hiding in the big city hadn’t been enough to escape her dangerous family. The Morans have kidnapped her roommate, demanding Christina return to Georgia. But that will mean facing the cutthroat attorney Marcus Cartwright, a man she once loved but who only wanted to take down her family. Marcus had started a coalition with his friend to crack down on organized crime in Savannah. But when his friend loses his life in a supposed accident, nothing will stop Marcus from seeking justice, not even the Moran’s prodigal daughter who left town twelve years ago. Nobody will derail him this time. But then Christina never was a nobody.
Induction - Chautona Havig Someone wants her dead. Not happening on his watch. When Ramon Simon goes missing, the small town of Fairbury burns with rumors hotter than the sidewalk in July. They’re certain he’s either left his wife, or she killed him (not that they’d blame her). As the weeks pass and the police fail to find answers, things heat up more when Anna Simon disappears, too. If that’s not strange enough, the chief of police orders his officers to leave Anna out of their investigation. As a new recruit into a secret protection service known only as The Agency to the few who know it exists, Keith Auger doesn’t know what he’s doing, but he’s determined to do his new job well. But when he finds himself guarding a woman before he’s fully trained, he already begins to doubt the wisdom of this career path. Pressure mounts as Keith tries to stay one step ahead of the men out to kill Anna and another step ahead of Anna who is determined to find answers no one will give her. Keith can’t help but wonder: will his first assignment with The Agency be his last?
Cara C. Putman lives in Indiana with her husband and four children. She is a clinical associate professor in law and ethics at Purdue University's School of Business. She has loved reading and writing from a young age and now realizes it was all training for writing books. She loves bringing history and legal romantic suspense to life.
An honors graduate of the University of Nebraska, George Mason University School of Law, and Krannert School of Management, Cara left small town Nebraska and headed to Washington, D.C., to launch her career in public policy.
Cara is an author chasing hard after God as she lives a crazy life. She invites you to join her on that journey. She's currently writing her 46th book with more on the way. Please check out her website to learn more about her books and read first chapters.
I really enjoyed this book as a whole. Chautona Havig is one of my favorite authors so when I saw that she was writing an origin story for one of her beloved characters, Keith, from the Agency Series, I was delighted. Then I heard that it was going to be published as part of this collection I was intrigued. I had never read anything by these other authors and I was pleasantly surprised.
Serial Heat by Emilie Haney has mystery, adventure, suspense and a little romance sprinkled throughout. And the reveal of whodunnit was unpredictable. The conflict of the characters and their growth felt realistic and not forced.
I have not yet read The Art of Deception by Cara Putman so I can’t comment on that book at this time.
Real Justice by Katy Lee reads very much like your typical star-crossed lovers but with a twist. The focus seemed to be more on the main characters and their reconciliation story than the mystery to be solved and I enjoyed that. There were many instances of conflict and just when you think things are working out and you think you understand, wham, another twist or conflict.
Induction by Chautona Havig was the book I was most looking forward to because as I’ve stated, she is one of my favorite authors and I’ve read all of the books in the Agency Series so I’ve very familiar with one of the main characters, Keith. This was a great “introduction” to Keith and I enjoyed seeing the beginning of his story with The Agency. While there is romance in the side characters and there is adventure because of the job of protection, the story focuses mostly on Keith and his learning how to be a protector in these circumstances. I really liked seeing him trying to figure out the job while have excellent instincts but also grappling with the potencial conflict of his moral compas and the grey lines that this line of work can cross.
I highly recommend this collection of books to anyone who likes clean, mystery and adventure with a little touch of romance that feels natural.
DISCLAIMER * I received a review copy from the publisher but am under no obligation to offer a favorable review.
I read an ARC of “The Art of Deception” by Cara Putman and I am looking forward to reading the other novellas in the book. The Art of Deception is about a former artist, Charlotte Montgomery, who stopped pursuing her love for painting in order to hide herself and her young son from an Italian crime family. There are a lot of realistic details about the painting process, so the intricately researched facts were much appreciated. I also liked the characters, especially Charlotte, a woman determined to keep her son safe at no small cost to herself. And I enjoyed getting to meet her boss who was just as determined to keep her safe from unscrupulous money launderers and FBI agents who might be willing to use her to accomplish their own goals. The book was well-paced with just enough intrigue and a few edgy scenes that it kept me interested in what would happen to Marie (aka Charlotte). The plot is tight and crackles with tension as Charlotte faces her former nemesis and convincingly explores taking down an Italian mob family. I enjoyed getting to know the characters who were believable and unique, but I mostly liked the “James Bond” kind of cleverness included in the story and waited breathlessly as I quickly turned pages to get to the conclusion. Disclaimer Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
Anna Mae Stevens had been missing for over 2 weeks and PI Clancy Sullivan was out of leads. In Clancy’s search, he stumbled upon a decomposed body that could have been Anna. But, was it?
2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
Willa Martin, a close friend of Anna, firmly believed that Anna had not run away. With her strong determination and perseverance, Willa was confident that she would tirelessly work on Anna’s case, even though she was emotionally invested.
3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
Anna was Willa Martin’s best friend, how was it possible she was missing? After determining the corpse was not Anna, Clancy and Willa had to determine who the corpse was and find Anna.
4. How is the writing style or quality of the writing?
Embrace the captivating world of romantic suspense with this impeccably crafted book, filled with enticing twists and nail-biting moments.
5. (for Christian fiction) Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
We are here for a reason, even if we can’t think of what that reason might be. God is bigger than our fears.
6. For whom would you recommend this book?
I would recommend this book to fans of mystery or suspense.
7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I give Serial Heat 5*/5* because of the strong female role and determination of Willa Martin.
8. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?
Certainly! The title is truly memorable as it immediately sparks curiosity about the possibility of a thrilling serial killer.
The Art of Deception Cara Putman
1. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
In a bold move, artist Charlotte Montgomery made the decision to change her name to Marie in order to safeguard her son. However, the burning question remains: Did this name change ensure their safety?
2. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
CPA Thayer Jackson is set to prove that either Marie took part in organized crime or not.
3. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
By purposefully creating distance between herself and her Italian boyfriend, who had audaciously requested her to engage in forgery, Marie’s resolute stance has imparted a striking significance to the artworks now displayed on the walls of Indiana. As we immerse ourselves in this enthralling narrative, we are compelled to embark on a quest to unravel the truth behind their origin and authenticate their remarkable journey. Rest assured, this remarkable tale will unfurl before our eyes, unveiling the extraordinary nature of these artistic creations.
4. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
We are deeply loved by the heavenly Father. Our value comes from Him and nothing else.
5. For whom would you recommend this book?
I would recommend The Art of Deception to fans of suspense.
6. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I enthusiastically award The Art of Deception a perfect rating of 5 stars out of 5! This book marks the start of an exceptionally remarkable series that is sure to captivate readers.
To read what happens next for Drew and Carter be sure to read Secrets to Keep, releasing May 2024.
Real Justice Katy Lee
1. How did you feel about the setting?
I loved it because Savannah, Georgia has always intrigued me, with its riverfront and historical buildings.
2. What do potential readers need to know most about the main character?
Marcus Cartwright’s friend’s body had washed ashore just a couple of days ago. He had dated Christina Moran but he no longer trusted her.
3. Which supporting character caught your interest the most?
Christina Moran had made the difficult decision to leave Georgia in order to shield her friends from the notorious Moran family. After a period of absence, she has now returned to the state, raising paramount concerns pertaining to the safety and well-being of herself and her companions. The pressing matter at hand demands an earnest inquiry: Will they be able to maintain their security amidst the potential risks and dangers that lie ahead?
4. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
Marcus needed evidence that the Morans killed his partner. He believed they killed him or had him killed because he was getting too close to proving their part in selling guns to gangs. Even though Christina Moran had grown up in the deceitful Moran family she was different and she would set out to prove her worth and her family’s deceitfulness. Marcus planned to put an end to the dynasty.
5. Are there spiritual truths to be gleaned from the story?
Vengeance belongs to God, not man. God loves justice and He will get it. Real justice will be served by the One who avenges for us.
6. For whom would you recommend this book?
I would recommend Real Justice to fans of suspense.
7. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I confidently give this riveting story a perfect 5*/5* rating, as it effortlessly captivates the reader with its engaging narrative and thrilling suspense.
8. Is the title memorable and/or emotion-grabbing?
Absolutely, as it compels the reader to ponder upon the crucial question of whether the Moran family will obtain the long-awaited and much-deserved justice they rightfully deserve.
Induction Chautona Havig
1. What journey do(es) the main character(s) take?
In a twist of events, Anna finds herself at the center of a mysterious case. Her husband, Roman, has unexpectedly vanished, leaving behind a trail of questions and suspicions. As the investigation intensifies, Anna’s arrest for fraud and a potential connection to a sinister act of murder send shockwaves through the community. Will the truth unravel, ultimately revealing the real culprit behind these perplexing events?
2. Why did you give it the star rating you did?
I confidently rate Induction 3 out of 5 stars. The plot unfolded rapidly, making it somewhat challenging to keep up with all the events.
“I wholeheartedly endorse this book, having received a personal copy from the author. Rest assured, my review is unbiased and reflects my genuine thoughts and opinions.”
In reading the four stories within the covers of Come What May, I was entranced.by Emilie Haney’s Serial Heat began the mystery ramping up. A typical story of an outsider looking in, but with non-typical traits. It was a serial murder mystery that paired up an unlikely duo to solve its crime while attraction flared between them. As the danger rises, tensions become frayed and a connection between outsider cop-turned-P.I. Clancy and hometown girl, Willa finds solid ground – the dangerous murderer seeks Willa as its next victim! Up until the last page, I could not put this book down until I found out if love could set these two free. This story is well worth the read! I give it 5 out of 5 stars. Cara Putman, in Art of Deception, artistically painted a story of life and fear as Charlotte Montgomery, known as Marie, ran from the past filled with the Italian Mob. Years after racing her son to his homeland - murder, kidnapping, mayhem, and mischief has followed. With a survivor’s instinct, Marie begins to fight back, reaching for an end to the running that has occupied her last eight years alongside her boss-accountant, Thayer Jackson. With fierce protection and faith, can Marie escape once again and finally return to using her birthname, Charlotte, forever? This was a great book and I give it 4 stars out of 5! Real Justice, creatively penned by Katy Lee, was full of intrigue, drama, murder, and deception. Due to a kidnapping of her roommate, Christina Moran (now Chris Depalo), returns to Savannah to free her friend. As Chris faces her past she is almost killed before a confrontation with her father. She is paired up with attorney Marcus Cartwright, her first and only love, to bring an end to what overruns her hometown. As Chris and Marcus follow the clues and find her friend; however, the scales of justice have tipped her in favor, in trusting Marcus. Is love enough to keep them together this time, instead of Chris’ experience in running away? I loved this book and couldn’t put it down! I give this book 5 stars out of 5! Induction, written by Chautona Having, was a fast-paced story riddled with danger, murder, grief, and intrigue. From the first page, I had a hard time putting this story of the missing Ramon Simon and his misunderstood wife, Anna Simon down. As the gossip-mill travels throughout town filled with lies and half-truths, Anna finds herself on the run from someone out to kill her. The scenes were well-planned, and I could almost envision them as they occurred. The danger was eminent and Keith, Anna’s assigned protector, as well as his trainer, Hani, had to figure out how to keep it at bay. Through the grief, a friendship blossomed between Keith and Anna, as well as a connection. Hani tried to remain professional with the neighboring farmer next door, as she wanted to protect Anna and evade whatever feelings were present around this man. When the danger increased, Anna decided rules were meant to be broken so she could end the problem and focus on a future of many tomorrows. I was given this book to read for my honest opinion of the stories within it. Come What May, as a whole book truly engaged all my senses and captured my interest, 100%! I give this well-written, mysterious book full of danger, lost opportunities, and faith, 5 stars out of 5! This entire collection is an absolute must-read for your TBR list!
I somehow missed the part where the four stories included in the book are longer than a short story or novella, so the length of the first mystery took me by surprise. Emilie Haney wrote about Private Investigator Clancy Sullivan trying to track down a missing young woman, who happens to be the best friend of local dispatcher Willa Martin in Serial Heat. I probably would not have picked up this story if it weren’t part of a collection with a story by Chautona Havig. Serial killer stories are not my cup of tea. A bit too much insta-love for my taste. I gave this one 3.5/5 stars.
In The Art of Deception, Cara Putman told the story of how Charolotte “Marie” Montgomery’s past as an artist in Italy caught up to her when the people she tried to escape track her down and try to force her to join their forgery/money laundering business. I liked this one better than the first. The characters knew each other a bit before the story started. Their reactions felt more realistic. The ending seemed a bit bungled, but I think a few paragraphs are missing in the ARC. I would give this one 4/5 stars.
Katy Lee wove together the story of Marcus Cartwright seeking justice for the mysteries death of his business partner and Christina DePalo/Moran tracking down her kidnapped roommate in Real Justice. I didn’t attach to the characters in this one. Chritina is tall (where I am short) and trying to escape from her crime family (where I am from a typical Midwestern family). I think I also just wanted to get through this one to get to Chautona’s contribution, which came last in the book. I gave this one 3.5/5 stars.
Finally, Chautona contributed Induction, the prequel to her Agency Files series, in this collection of summer stories. I acquired The Agency Files ebooks last month, so I wanted to read this book ASAP. Keith Augur spends his first assignment with The Agency keeping Anna Simon safe from whoever made her husband go missing. Hani Kuar also works to keep Anna safe while training Keith in his new job. Even during a suspenseful book, Chautona includes glimmers of her humor to prevent the story from feeling too unrealistic or too heavy. I give this one 4.5/5 stars because I still want more of the story.
If you like romantic suspense, this is the collection for you. I have not yet read Induction, by Chautona Havig, but I have read the other three. Serial Heat is the first, and it involves a serial killer with a taste for young women, old abandoned buildings, and raging fires. Would Clancy and Willow be able to find either Anna or her killer before anyone else died? The Art of Deception involves paint, art forgery, and organised crime. Marie was desperate to keep her son safe, but what would that cost her? Would Thayer Jackson be able to keep her safe while he found and took down the bad guys? Then there is Real Justice. Chris had worked for 12 years to keep herself hidden and free from her family who specialised in organised crime in Savannah. When they got hold of someone very close to her, however, she found herself embroiled in their mess all over again. Could she possibly trust Marcus, and would Marcus be able to bring down the Morgan’s before anyone else got killed? Murder mysteries are definitely not my favourite genre. I do not like scenes in which people get killed. I do appreciate seeing justice done to the wicked, but it’s not my favourite kind of story. If, however, however, you are the type of reader who loves mystery, intrigue, and romance, all mixed together, you will enjoy these books. They are well written, and though predictable, there was enough variation to keep me interested. As I said, I have not yet read Induction. I anticipate enjoying this one more than the other three, because I have liked practically everything that this author has written. Her books are usually quite different than most books in their genres, and I just get along very well with her style. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
This review is for Cara Putman’s The Art of Deception. This is an intriguing suspenseful clean romance. Maria formerly Charlotte has been hiding with her son Drew for eight years. Her dream was to become an artist, but when she fell under the wrong influence of her boyfriend in Italy, she realize she was in deeper than she could believe. She had been convinced to paint forgeries to be sold for big bucks. When she learned her boyfriend had committed murder, and that she was pregnant, she knew she had to get out, so she changed her name and made herself vanish from her past. She was living a quiet life with her son when a coworker asked her to go to a new opening at an art gallery. She soon realizes she was not as invisible as she thought, and now they were threatening her son if she didn’t comply with what they wanted. Thayer, was a simple accountant, but his good friend Johnson was a member of the FBI. On occasion he would help crunch numbers and help break codes when he could. Johnson had given him two tickets to the art gallery that the FBI were watching, and wanted him to go and observe. He had been interested in Marie, his coworker, and decided it was time to make a move to see if she would be interested. He was quickly pulled in to a situation he was not prepared for. This book had a lot of drama, suspense and sweet romance. I thought it was a well-rounded interesting plot. Although I had just finished reading another story with the same topic of art forgeries. I enjoy the characters and I am curious about what happens next?
The Art of Deception is part of the Come What May Christian suspense collection. This review is only for The Art of Deception, not the collection as a whole.
Right from the start, this story absolutely drew me in, leaving me wanting to figure out what exactly had happened in Charlotte/Marie's past. While the pace felt a little slower than what I'm used to in a typical suspense read, it was perfect for this story (and was still a fairly quick read too). Where many suspense stories are back-to-back action that keep you on the edge of your seat, I felt like this one really only had a handful of those high suspense moments... still the high stakes of protecting her child had me absolutely invested into the story just as well as an action-packed story would have. It was really an interesting look into the world of art forgeries and money laundering that felt unique and was quite entertaining too. There was definitely a hint of romance, but I definitely feel like that took a bit of a backseat in this one and didn't really pick up until closer to the end, but I didn't mind that one bit!
Overall, this was a really fun read and one that fans of Christian suspense are sure to want to check out.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
The Art of Deception by Cara Putman Oh, this is too good. One has to be able to put it down. Get some sleep. I'm normally a historical fiction person so I took a chance to take this one. Boy I'm glad that I did. What a great spy suspense novel! Can't wait for the next one! Marie is really Charlotte, an artist hiding out in America from a crime family that she got tangled up with in Italy, using art for money laundering. Marie can paint like the classic painters so is very valuable to them. Even though she loved painting, she gave it up and fled to care for her son, but they found her. She works with Thayer who does work on the side for the FBI. Three-D characters to get wrapped up in. Twisty and turny, just right. I read the ARC from Cara which is part of the full book of four stories under the title Come What May. I received this book free from the author, publisher and Book Funnel. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
This book is a compilation of 4 suspense/mysteries. That is the only thing they have in common yet it works putting them together. I love when authors cooperate together because I get to see different styles and I get to meet authors I haven't heard of.
That is the case here. I will definitely be looking for more books from the authors I just "met" through their work. They all did a great job with introducing their characters and keeping the suspense going without giving things away. Each of these books have a Christian aspect to them but none are in your face.
I do have to say one of my favorite quotes was from Chautona Havig's Induction: "Leave it to Karen to make sure he felt appreciated. Someday the world would equate the name Karen with love and encouragement." I literally laughed out loud at that one.
Serial Heat by Emilie Haney - 5 stars - Loved this one! Emilie Haney has quickly become one of my favorite suspense authors, so I definitely knew I wanted to read her addition to this collection.
The Art of Deception by Cara Putman - 4 stars - Really intriguing, and I enjoyed this one!
Real Justice by Katy Lee - 4 stars - Lots of twists and turns, and I would not have seen that ending coming, lol.
Induction by Chautona Havig - 3 stars - This one started out with quite a bang, and I was really intrigued, but I kinda ended up confused at the end. I hate rating things low, but I did struggle with this one a bit.
Overall, I enjoyed this suspense collection! Thank you to the authors for providing an early copy!! :)
~~I received an early copy of this book and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
This book is a compilation of four books by four romantic suspense authors. I like reading this type of book as it gives me a quick look into the unique writing styles of authors I may not be as familiar with. While each book included in Come What May stands on its own, I want to give kudos to The Art of Deception by Cara Putman. I have read many of her works, but in my opinion, this is her best writing to date! Her storyline was a complete departure from any of her other books. It was fresh, compelling, and relevant. Her characters were multidimensional, and she made you want to know more about them as the story unfolded. Putman artfully interspersed suspense and intrigue throughout the story. What I liked best is the hero is the most unlikely person, which proves that every day someone, somewhere, decides to make something spectacular out of their ordinary days.
This review is only for the Art of Deception by Cara Putman
While living in Italy, artist Charlotte Montgomery (aka Marie) discovers her boyfriend's plans to use her in his crime family's business of art forgery. She flees Italy, changes her name and renounces all ties to the world of art. After years of hiding, her past catches up to her and in order to protect her son, she finds herself once again pulled into the illegal world of art forgery and money laundering. This time, with the help of her co-worker Thayer and the FBI, Marie fights back. She decides to stand up to her ex-boyfriend, trust God, stop running and reclaim her life. I received an early copy for review.
Marie Montgomery works at Hunter & Associates, supporting her young son, Drew. Marie has a hidden past for eight years, while she tries to stay safe. Then she works with Thayer at the office and he takes an interest in her. Can she take the risk?
In a rush to keep her son safe, she has him hidden away. Her past has finally caught up with her. Marie's background in art haunts her.
Deception, who to trust, and playing detective get her in lots of unsafe circumstances. The action was non-stop and the bad guys keep changing. You will have to read it and try your best to discover the truth. It will be a challenge. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Come What May is the third volume of Summer Heat. It features 4 christian romantic suspense novels. I enjoyed every single one of them especially Katy Lee's fantastic story. It was a great book to read to figure out if you like these authors. I had only read one author of the 4 featured in this book. I will be looking to read the other 2 books in Summer Heat and the other 3 authors who I hadn't read before. These are fast-paced, intense, page-turning stories that will leave you wanting more. I highly recommend before summer ends that you pick this volume up. Or even read it after summer. We can all you use a little summer heat every now and again! I was given a copy, but all opinions are my very own.
This is a review for Art of Deception by Cara C. Putman. As usual your in for a great read full of suspense, and surprises. What is the connection between art and crime? I was about to find out, and there are so many twist and turns. We are given a young woman, with a young child, and she is on the run. She severs contact with everyone, and is hiding in plain sight. How much pain Charlotte has endured, but now things get worse! We are given some danger, and I didn't really see where it was coming from, but we are also given some sweet romance! In the end I wanted to continue with Charlotte in her life! I received this book through Two Dogs Publishing, and was not required to give a positive review.
This book 3 has been another great addition to the Summer Heat 2023 collection. All four books were unique, had great characters, added just the right touch of romance, and held just the right amount of suspense. I appreciated the inclusion of a small element of faith in each of the stories, but I will say that none of it was overt or off putting for those who might not share the characters’ faith. Some of these stories are prequels to series, and I will be looking for those stories to read more about these characters. I highly recommend this book for anyone needing a good literary escape through suspense.
I was blessed to be able to read one of the novellas that is part of this collection as a street team reader for Cara Putman's entry, The Art of Deception. Wow! Talk about being dropped headlong into a bucket full of suspense! I love when the writer is able to catch my interest from the first few pages, and by the end of the chapter I was fully invested in Charlotte's story. It was also enlightening to learn a little bit about the art world and wily schemers who try to turn a profit in any way they can. I definitely recommend this book to those who love suspense and strong characters.
Cara Putnam’s The Art of Deception is a prequel to a new series that is included in this collection - Come What May. I enjoyed this suspenseful story set in the world of art and art galleries. Marie/Charlotte, the main character, is forced to revisit her life as an artist that she abandoned when she and her son are threatened. If you enjoy action packed stories with a touch of romance and a positive message, read Art of Deception. Thank you to Book Funnel, the author, the publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Once a talented art student studying the masters in Italy, Charlotte Montgomery has been in hiding for 8 years. She's done everything she can to protect her son, including giving up her passion for painting. When she's asked to accompany a co-worker to an event at an art gallery, Charlotte has no idea that her past is about to catch up with her and threaten the carefully constructed world she has created.
Art of Deception is one of four novellas included in Come What May -- book three in the Summer Heat novella collection. This book focused on a woman in a desperate situation and the man who cares for her. He is outside of his skill set and in no real position to help. Perhaps their combined fear and desperation created an unbelievable storyline that was hard for the reader to accept. This left us wanting more than the author provided in this novella.
Art of Deception is from a volume of four different suspense stories. I have only read this one so far. Putman’s story had me on the edge of my seat. I started reading it late at night so it was hard to put it down to sleep. I liked the twist and turns that kept me reading. I’m looking forward to the next book Putman has out.
I received a complimentary copy of Putman’s story, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
This is a fun anthology, but not especially suspenseful or romantic. I enjoyed reading most of the stories, but predicted the plot twists pretty early on. The third story had a bit too much going on for me, and left me with some confusion as to what all had actually been going on—which would have been fine if the ending sounded like the story was meant to be introductory, but it doesn't. Pick up for a fun, lighter read.
I loved the first two collections in this series, but this one....wish I had not spent the $19.99 for the paperback. I really enjoyed two of the stories in this collection, but I had trouble understanding what was going on in one of the stories, and really struggled to get through one of the others
I read an ARC of “The Art of Deception” by Cara Putnam. I felt it started a bit confusing. One of the FBI agents had a typical last name for a first name and it just felt strange. It did get better by the middle, but ended unfinished. It was a quick read and could be enjoyable to anyone who likes some mystery with a bit of romance.
I was given an e-copy of The Art of Deception by Cara Putman, which is one of the stories in this book. If you like mystery, and romance, I believe you'll really enjoy this book! You may also learn a lot about art, or a little, depending on how much you already know. Keeps you attention. Thanks again, Cara, for the book! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Oh my goodness! I loved every single book! I enjoyed new mysteries from authors/series that I already know and love, and I’ve enjoyed finding new authors/series to read. I’m happy to say that I preordered each of the Summer Heat books and I dearly hope that there will be another set of mysteries next summer!
Chautona Havig’s Agency Files series is a favorite of mine so I was excited to see this book included in the collection. This book comes before the other Agency files. It’s about Keith’s first assignment. It details his struggles on balancing a job that requires deceit with his Christian values.
I just finished reading Cara Putnam’s, The Art of Deception. If all the stories are like this one, this book is certainly a keeper. Loved the suspense and a little romance. I received a copy of this story and all opinions are my own.
The stories were very intense. They definitely held my interest. I have heart 💛 ❤️ failure, and I would need to break up the reading so I could relax. I am glad that I was able to finish the stories. The theme was always uplifting and inspiring.
The first 3 stories were enjoyable. I wanted to read the next instalment of Cara C Putman. The last story seemed little too unrealistic to me and the ending left me confused to how we got to that point.