Hailey Arquette found the ultimate photo opportunity deep in the Texas bayou, a pair of playful panther cubs. Before she can capture the shot, she witnesses a different type of shoot that lands in the crosshairs of a vicious killer.
FBI agent Trenton Briner has long known the coastal waters of Texas are ripe for the opportunity for smuggling. His current investigation leads him to a mouthy teen with an uncanny knack for landing in the thick of trouble at every turn.
When another body turns up, the trio must untangle the mystery before the smugglers find their target.
Reily Garrett is a writer, mother, and companion to three long coat German shepherds. When not working with her dogs, she’s sitting at her desk with her furkids by her side. Author of chilling suspense and snarky romance, her stories include romantic thrillers and paranormal romance, . Regardless of genre, each book delves into a dark and twisted imagination yet is tempered with romance and a touch of humor. Reviews by Kirkus Reviews, San Francisco Bay Review, and BestThrillers.com best describe her work: "This could be James Patterson, Lee Child, and Tess Gerritsen rolled into one, but the dark, twisted methods used by the serial killer could surprise even those readers…” - San Francisco Bay Review “…steamy, seductive police procedural…” - BestThrillers.com “…well-researched thriller that remains romantically genuine throughout.” - Kirkus Review
Prior experience in the Military Police, private investigations, and as an ICU nurse gives her fiction a real-world flavor.
This is a well written book with a cast of strong characters centering on Hailey and Casper. The author does a great job developing the story and pulled me in with the interesting storyline. She brings the paranormal adds in some twists and a bit of humor and weaves a thrilling story that had me glued to the pages. She moves the story fluidly with her descriptive scenes and delivers a terrific read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I enjoyed this murder mystery with exciting twists you won't see coming. Hailey and Casper seem to be magnets for trouble. While Casper seems to know all about her powers, Hailey is still learning. After witnessing a murder, Hailey has a target on her back. Exasperated FBI agent Trent, tries to keep them safe, but they keep him frustrated. This story has suspense, danger, psychics and some humor, everything you want in a mystery. Highly recommended. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
Pace: The pace of Deceptive Silence is fast. It starts with a bang (with Haley witnessing a murder) and ends with a bang. The book had little to no lag, which is rare because books with faster storylines have some lag.
POV: Deceptive Silence is told from Haley, Casper, and Trenton’s 3rd person point of view.
Series: Deceptive Silence is the 2nd book in the Haley Arquette Murder Files series. While you can read this book as a stand-alone, I suggest reading the first book. There are references to events in the previous books that might confuse you.
Trigger/Content Warning: Deceptive Silence has trigger and content warnings. If any of these triggers you, I suggest not reading the book. They are:
Blood (graphic, on and off page) Dead Bodies and Body Parts (graphic, on and off page) Mutilation (moderate, off page) Death (graphic, on and off page) Captivity and Confinement (moderate, on and off page) Gang Violence (graphic, on and off page) Kidnapping (moderate, on page) Murder (graphic, on and off page) Attempted murder (graphic, on and off page) Gun Violence (graphic, on and off page) Assault (graphic, on and off page) Sexual Content: There is no sexual content in Deceptive Silence. Haley does lust after Dante, but it goes no further than that.
Language: There is moderate swearing in Deceptive Silence. There is also some offensive language used by the Jackals (the gang) during interactions with Haley and Casper.
Setting: Deceptive Silence takes place in and around Hamchet, Texas.
Tropes: Found Family, Dark Secret, No Romance, The Red Herring, Twist Ending, Surprise Turncoat
Age Range: I recommend Deceptive Silence to anyone over 16.
Plot Synopsis (as spoiler-free as I can get):
Haley is out in the bayou, photographing panther cubs for her portfolio, when she witnesses the murder of an undercover ATF agent. After speaking to his spirit, Haley is determined to find out who murdered him and why. With the help of Casper, a teenager who has her reasons for being in Hamchet, Haley starts looking into the murder. When another person is murdered, Haley and Casper must work quickly to figure out who the killer is. Because if they don’t, they could become the next victims.
Main Characters
Haley Arquette: I liked Haley, but I felt that she did take unnecessary risks when it came to investigating both the Jackals and the ATF agent’s death. She kept putting herself in harm’s way and risking exposing her growing powers. I liked how she handled everything and how her powers grew throughout the book. I can’t wait to see what Haley will do in the next book.
Casper: I enjoyed seeing more of her character in Deceptive Silence. She was a favorite of mine in The Guardians series, and I was happy that the author chose to include her in this book. Her skills (and those of her family) did add an extra oomph to the storyline. I enjoyed her mouthy quips and comebacks to Trenton (the interrogation scene had me giggling). But, most of all, I liked that she was a true friend to Haley. She had Haley’s back no matter what.
My review:
I have been reading books by Reily Garrett for a while, and I have come to expect certain things from her books. There should be a lot of action, well-fleshed-out characters, a well-written plotline, a great mystery/thriller, and a good romance. So, when she approached me to review Deceptive Silence, I immediately agreed. This book delivered on everything that I outlined above except the romance. But, with everything going on in the book, it would have been too much if she added romance to Haley’s plate.
There are two storylines in Deceptive Silence. Both are well-written and kept my attention throughout the book. I liked seeing characters from The Guardian series (and maybe the Mind Stalkers series) show up in the book. It was those added details that made me enjoy the books even more.
The first storyline in Deceptive Silence follows Haley as she tries to solve the murder of the ATF agent. This storyline is entrenched with the storyline, making it hard to follow. But it didn’t affect how much I liked the storyline or how surprised I was with the twists that came with it.
The second storyline is a carryover from the first book. It follows Haley as she investigates the disappearance of a former gang member. This storyline does get a little gory and gross. At one point, Haley ends up in a mausoleum. I liked that Haley became more aware of her powers in this storyline. I am also very interested in who Dante was and why he was untraceable. There could be a romance there, but I don’t know.
The mystery angle of the book did take me by surprise. I was not expecting how the ATF agent’s death and the missing gang member were connected. Now that I read the book, I see slight foreshadowing throughout. But at the time I read it, I was shocked.
The end of Deceptive Silence was interesting. The author merged the two main storylines with a surprising connection. However, the epilogue caught my attention and made me want to read Book 3.
Many thanks to Reily Garrett for allowing me to read and review Deceptive Silence. All opinions stated in this review are mine.
‘I wonder if the murder was planned or spur of the moment’
Author Reily Garrett continues her newest, and very successful, series of thrillers the Hailey Arquette Murder Files with DECEPTIVE SILENCE - Hailey Arquette is a private investigator imbued with that extra gift of knowledge (and ancestry!) of the occult. Reily’s in depth career experiences in the Military Police, and ICU nurse, and a private investigator provide strong credibility to her plot management, and of course her innate, keen sense of humor simply makes this thriller even more entertaining!
Reily paints vivid atmospheres, as the opening pages deliver Hailey and her loyal hound Gunther in a telling passage: ‘Before the sun peeked over the horizon’s rim to separate the lush greens, golds, and browns that would comprise the best picture in Hailey’s portfolio, misty gray held the bayou’s secrets tight within its obscure and deadly grasp…Dusk and dawn proved the most dangerous times for exploring the bayou and the best hunting times for apex predators…Natural light would help obtaining her best shot – with a camera.’ Into this setting the new adventure is described: ‘Hailey Arquette found the ultimate photo opportunity deep in the Texas bayou, a pair of playful panther cubs. Before she can capture the shot, she witnesses a different type of shoot that lands in the crosshairs of a vicious killer. FBI agent Trenton Briner has long known the coastal waters of Texas are ripe for the opportunity for smuggling. His current investigation leads him to a mouthy teen with an uncanny knack for landing in the thick of trouble at every turn. When another body turns up, the trio must untangle the mystery before the smugglers find their target.’
Hailey Arquette is most assuredly a character to follow as Reily once again provides a scintillating mystery atmosphere (with moments of humor) to her compendium of highly successful novels. Recommended on many levels!
Psychic private investigator Hailey Arquette is a magnet for trouble. But fortunately Casper can be quite helpful when she needs extrication from her latest disaster. FBI Agent Trenton Briner is investigating suspected smuggling. And when Hailey had been taking pictures in the swamp earlier, she heard two men arguing. She thought of one as “ponytail” and the other as “hoodie”. There was a rifle shot and “ponytail” fell, clutching his chest. “Hoodie” had been behind him, so he could not have shot him; there must have been a third person with the rifle. But her dog Gunther hated guns and made a sound that drew “Hoodie’s” attention. Then someone/something yelled “Duck!” in Hailey’s ear but she didn’t see anyone. Again someone said, “Hailey, move it” and her shoulder was shoved… but no one was there. Then she and Gunther ran to her truck as additional shots were fired at them. She heard boat motors moving away. But she witnessed a murder that puts her at risk.
Hearing a male voice whisper for help, she saw the victim’s body. He was dead, yet he talked to her? The voice was not the one that warned her earlier. Then she saw “ponytail’s” dead body. She took a picture of him for the police… his body may be eaten before the police got there. The man’s voice startled her again and she fell, her hand feeling something that turned out to be a gun. Maybe “Hoodie’s”? She and Gunther had to run then as the adult alligator appeared. Maybe Casper could help her? And then she suddenly realized “Ponytail’s” killer had seen her face! With Hailey, Agent Briner, and the ghost Casper teaming up, will they solve the mystery of what the smugglers are after?
The danger, suspense, and humor in this series makes it an excellent reading experience. Give it a try and see if the team can find justice in the bayou.
Hey there, fellow bookworms! 📖 I just finished reading "Deceptive Silence" by Reily Garrett, and I couldn't wait to share my thoughts with all of you. 🤓
First of all, big thanks to Booksprout and Reily Garrett for the ARC – you guys are the real stars! 🙌
This is the second installment in the series, and I have to say it's another thrilling adventure for our favorite detective, Hailey Arquette, with a little help from her trusty partner-in-crime-solving, Caspar. 🕵️♀️
The story kicks off with Hailey stumbling upon an absolutely heartwarming photo op – two mischievous panther cubs in the Texas bayou. 🐾📷 But just when you think it's going to be a walk in the park, BAM! She witnesses something she wasn't supposed to, putting her right in the crosshairs of a dangerous killer. 😱
Enter FBI agent Trenton Briner, who's been keeping a close eye on the shady business of smuggling along the Texas coast. His investigation takes a wild turn when he crosses paths with a feisty teen who seems to have a talent for diving headfirst into trouble.
As the plot thickens, another body surfaces, and the trio must work together to untangle the twisted mystery before the smugglers hit their target. 🌊🔍💥
"Deceptive Silence" is a heart-pounding thriller that'll keep you on the edge of your seat. It's got all the elements you need for a gripping page-turner: suspense, danger, and a dash of that good ol' Texas charm. 🤠
So, if you're a fan of suspenseful mysteries with strong-willed characters and a touch of the wild, don't miss out on this one. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down! 📚❤️
Deceptive Silence is the second book in Reily Garrett's brilliant "Hailey Arquette Murder Files" series where readers are transported to a very entertaining world of sleuthing, involving a psychic PI and a too serious and straight laced FBI agent on the hunt for a vicious killer. Set within the setting of the coastal waters of Texas these two join together and start the deadly game of solving a new murder mystery. They are truly incredible characters that have been created and the whole plot line is so well planned and conceived that will grab readers interest and take them on an adventure filled with action, mystery and a strange sense of ghostly matter. When one is gifted with a paranormal ability anything seems to be possible for Hailey. I find there is something quite unique with Author Reily Garrett's works and to date have thoroughly enjoyed all her stories and look forward to seeing just how much more she can create with her creativity and her extensive personal experiences that help form some truly amazing story telling works.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre: Sci-fi and fantasy, General Fiction (Adult) Hailey is back in the thick of action again, witnessing a murder while out photographing nature. Once more she's in danger, and the puzzle of who has been killed, why, by whom and who else is at risk wrap around her. Trenton is, of course, involved again, and Caspar, from another of Reily's series gets involved. I have to say Haley is far more patient with her when the teen says she cant explain things. That would ( and did ) irritate me, I wanted to say “what, how, tell me why”. Hailey also had help from another unexpected source, as she starts to develop her powers. I think that's going to prove really interesting, and certainly was needed in this book. Its another action packed, supernatural filled, suspense. At times I did get a bit confused about how everything connected, as its a pretty complex, involved story. That's just me though, I find concentration a bit hard at the moment.
Stars: four, if you enjoy a solid, plot dense supernatural adventure this is perfect.
Hailey doesn't seem to be able to do anything without getting into trouble. Out in the middle of the bayou photographing wildlife for her blog she manages to witness a murder. This is just the tip of the iceberg.
Casper has not had an easy life and no understanding of family but being included in Hailey's circle is something she could get used to. As new psychic abilities are revealed we also get introduced to a new character. Dante is an enigma with charm, looks and an Italian accent to die for. Who knows what side he works for?
This is an absolutely awesome series. Each book can be read alone but are better read as a series. If you only start one series this is absolutely the one to read. Utterly absorbing with unforseen plot twists, betrayals, spooky shenanigans and possible romantic connections. Just outstanding.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
~The excitement continues to build! ~I continue to be amazed at the adventure and twisty storyline in this series. Every time the reader is pretty sure who is the good guy, who is the bad guy, and what they are going to do …there is yet another twist. And we learn little bits and pieces of the back story ‘bout some of the main characters. ~Our PI Hailey is still learning her trade…sure, she makes some mistakes (I have found myself yelling ‘NO! don’t go there.’). She is not seasoned…yet. It is reassuring to see the relationship between Haily and Casper coming together. Trent, Leigh, and of course Gunther are delightful satellite characters. ~The bayou Vodou element adds an interesting backdrop for this series. Perhaps not for everyone, but it does offer something different from the far too prevalent big inner city landscape. ~This book ended with a couple unanswered questions and a hint of something interesting to look forward to. ~Definitely, a good supernatural, crime drama.
Our heroine's pictures could reveal more than she was expecting and that makes her a target unless our hero can help her out of this jam.
This is book two of the series, but it works fine as a standalone.
This is a romantic suspense story with some paranormal elements. The story is well written, and easy to read with well developed characters and an intriguing setting. There is a lot of action and intrigue in this one, so the story moves at a good pace. I also like both of our lead characters which is always a plus. It does get a bit creepy at times, but not overly much, so just a heads up. Overall, a fast moving story that draws you in at the beginning and doesn't let go. I continue to look forward to another book in the series.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
Hailey Arquette is a complex character, now teamed up with the formidable Casper from a prior series. If there is trouble to be found one or the other of them seems to find it. There are multiple others who spend the majority of their time trying to keep these two safe. The series, to date, has been both amusing and serious. Paranormal events throughout keep you entertained and engaged. As do the subtle twists when you least expect them. An excellent read and addition to the first in the series.
I had hopes that I could step inside of the book for a little bit and just sit there.. It's hard though, because I personally have issues with people who continually work around pokice and deliberately put themselves in the path of danger. Always thinking they're smarter than everybody else. I love the characters though. I love how the stories have been developing. We will see. Will Casper start think before reacting and allow others into life? Will Addy get to talk to her Mother? Off to find out I guess
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, it was fun to see some of the characters from Casper’s “other” life helping her in Texas. Hailey finally gets to understand her mother and her sister. There is so much to uncover in this story and so many are not what they seem. It was lovely to have Simon back and the twist at the end was a complete surprise as was the visit by the Major. Looking forward to Unlikely Justice.
I've read several books written by Reily Garrett; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the second book in the Hailey Arquette Murder Files Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Hailey & Trenton; she’s out taking pictures and witnesses a murder; he’s an FBI agent working murder cases.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed the second book in the series. It focuses more on Hailey and her relationship with Casper. Casper is an interesting character and I can't wait to see more unfold with her. Hailey is coming into her own as it relates to her paranormal talents. The mystery is well done and solved. I will definitely read the next book in the series. I do recommend the series but it will be enjoyed more fully reading the books in order.
Another action packed case for Hailey to solve helped by Caspar. Hailey's own talents develop further and she starts to learn more about Caspar's life outside Texas. Leigh is there is support and Trenton grits his teeth throughout trying to get answers. Enjoying this series very much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am not really into thrillers but, I do love ghost stories, so that's what drew me in. I was not disappointed . I didn't read book 1, but I have it now and will continue with the series. Great story and characters. And humor who doesn't like humor.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are lots of twists and turns in this story. Plenty of drama and unexpected events happen. Entertaining characters to follow along as they weave through the clues and try to figure out what happened. There is some paranormal and fantasy activities that add to the story. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
All of the things Casper and Hailey get into - I’m honestly shocked they get out of them! We find out who was trying to kill Hailey - I shouldn’t have been shocked but I was so stuck on Dante. I don’t know who he is to them, but I am hoping we find out soon. What trouble is on its way to them has me stumped. I cannot wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This second installment to the series was well written and kept me reading in one sitting thanks to the entertaining characters along with the engaging story line. I look forward to my next adventure with Reily Garrett.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line is well written, engaging, and captivates you from start to finish. Suspense and mystery keep you turning the pages waiting to see what happens. The characters are well developed and easy to get to know.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is continuing to intrigue me. The characters are fascinating. Although the author seems to get a fiendish joy out of teasing us. Hint abound, but we aren't always privileged to everything. I understand Trent's frustration's. Who is this new guy? Good or bad? How is "little sis" all grown up? So many questions, but I am still interested.
..But hard to follow in many instances. I sometimes had to go back and reread to figure out who was speaking or what was happening. The story contained not stop action with some of the aforementioned confusions. It was, at times, difficult to tell just what was going on. All the interesting psychic ability that Haily and Casper have made it interesting.
Hailey and Casper do get into a LOT of trouble. Casper seems to be able to get her out though. There is a lot of danger and excitement in this story. I loved it. Very good story. I received a complimentary review copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The continuing series of private investigator Hailey, her partner in crime, Casper, and the messes they find themselves in. This is an amazing paranormal story of spirits, psychic powers and a great dog!
Deceptive Silence is a fast pced, full of action. The teamwork of Hailey and Casper is convoluted. Hailey is growing inimto her powers, and Casper is assisting in the growth. Awaiting the third book in the series.
For a PI, this girl is not too smart! I think she might need a crash course in self-defense. I can not stand a a heroine who always needs some one else to save her. Hailey should consider a career change.
I like the way your people work together, you get to the point and begin to make it work. You have something going from first to the last page. Kind of makes me homesick for Louisiana when you talk about the food.