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Shadow Island #12
Shadow's Hoax
Every clue is a countdown.
A typical morning at Sandpiper Bank turns into chaos when an armed man in a clown costume storms in, shattering the calm. He trashes the lobby and executes the bank manager, even after securing the money, hinting at a motive beyond mere robbery.
Maybe money isn’t the root of all evil, after all.
Puzzled by the senseless violence, Sheriff Rebecca West is drawn into a labyrinth of mystery and danger as the bank’s connections to the Yacht Club are revealed. The arrival of the FBI, led by Rebecca’s former instructor, offers a mix of relief and renewed tension. Together, they uncover a string of unsettling links to Shadow Island, each discovery more perplexing than the last.
As Rebecca inches ever closer to the sinister truths lurking within the Yacht Club, she finds herself plunged into treacherous waters. In this world of duplicity and danger, trust is a rare commodity, and the stakes skyrocket beyond the confines of the law.
Rebecca isn’t just chasing clues anymore...she’s fighting to stay afloat in a maelstrom of deceit. But as she delves deeper, she finds herself in the deep end...and sinking fast.
From the intriguing beginning to the electrifying conclusion, Shadow’s Hoax—the twelfth book in the Shadow Island Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes—plays out like a chess match. But in this deadly game, who is the pawn?
A typical morning at Sandpiper Bank turns into chaos when an armed man in a clown costume storms in, shattering the calm. He trashes the lobby and executes the bank manager, even after securing the money, hinting at a motive beyond mere robbery.
Maybe money isn’t the root of all evil, after all.
Puzzled by the senseless violence, Sheriff Rebecca West is drawn into a labyrinth of mystery and danger as the bank’s connections to the Yacht Club are revealed. The arrival of the FBI, led by Rebecca’s former instructor, offers a mix of relief and renewed tension. Together, they uncover a string of unsettling links to Shadow Island, each discovery more perplexing than the last.
As Rebecca inches ever closer to the sinister truths lurking within the Yacht Club, she finds herself plunged into treacherous waters. In this world of duplicity and danger, trust is a rare commodity, and the stakes skyrocket beyond the confines of the law.
Rebecca isn’t just chasing clues anymore...she’s fighting to stay afloat in a maelstrom of deceit. But as she delves deeper, she finds herself in the deep end...and sinking fast.
From the intriguing beginning to the electrifying conclusion, Shadow’s Hoax—the twelfth book in the Shadow Island Series by Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes—plays out like a chess match. But in this deadly game, who is the pawn?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2024
1199 people are currently reading
883 people want to read
About the author
Mary Stone
216 books2,131 followersTo download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
December 17, 2023
A clown robs the bank and shoots the manager. But something is 'off' about his movements. Who is really behind all this crime on Shadow Island? Sheriff Rebecca is wondering if 'The Yacht Club' is getting even for her shooting some of their members. Now the FBI is involved, and Rebecca lets them know the secret she has been keeping from the residents of the island. Is this really a good idea? I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
March 28, 2025
The Aqua Mafia (Yacht Club) seemed like its agenda might be changing. The purpose of the bank robbery was not obvious to Rebecca and her team, but it also wasn't obvious to the FBI. The relationships that Rebecca has developed with many of the residents of Shadow Island, as well as with her team, are part of the reason that keeps me coming back. I would have appreciated an explanation regarding why and how the aqua mafia picked the person who robbed the bank. More background information on him would have been intriguing.
After the situation Rebecca found herself in with Rhonda, I was not sure what to expect from the addition of SAC Benson. I discovered that I really enjoyed their relationship and the overall camaraderie of the team.
Being far enough into the series to realize the Aqua Mafia situation was going to be the underlying theme of the entire series, I feel the need to push forward. Tbh, I am sick of the entire yacht club thing because it has dragged on entirely too long, but I am invested in the character relationships. I am also hoping that I don't have to endure another situation like I did with Darian.
I had to wonder if the Aqua Mafia would ever pay for their crimes. Also, who are the main people running their organization? The way the book ended made me feel like things may actually move forward.
I imagine that this could be read as a stand-alone. I felt like enough information was provided for a reader to not be completely lost. I would tell a reader to be aware that each book has a particular crime that is solved, but there is a continuing story that has not been resolved yet. So, reader beware. Rating: 3.5 Stars.
After the situation Rebecca found herself in with Rhonda, I was not sure what to expect from the addition of SAC Benson. I discovered that I really enjoyed their relationship and the overall camaraderie of the team.
Being far enough into the series to realize the Aqua Mafia situation was going to be the underlying theme of the entire series, I feel the need to push forward. Tbh, I am sick of the entire yacht club thing because it has dragged on entirely too long, but I am invested in the character relationships. I am also hoping that I don't have to endure another situation like I did with Darian.
I had to wonder if the Aqua Mafia would ever pay for their crimes. Also, who are the main people running their organization? The way the book ended made me feel like things may actually move forward.
I imagine that this could be read as a stand-alone. I felt like enough information was provided for a reader to not be completely lost. I would tell a reader to be aware that each book has a particular crime that is solved, but there is a continuing story that has not been resolved yet. So, reader beware. Rating: 3.5 Stars.
February 18, 2024
A bank robbery, but so much more. This island can’t catch a break and neither can Rebecca and the deputies. A small, and perhaps huge break, did happen because of the robbery though…gee former boss and mentor has made an appearance and is noticing all of the odd connections and high crime. The deputies and dispatchers are working well together and we see them all showing growth individually and as a team Vivianne faced some big professional marks this book with knowing the shooting victim, having to take the sharpshooter role, facing down angry officers, etc. Hoyt and others are warming up to Locke and the Select Council chair got a fun meeting with the FBI. The ending showed the cards of more people who are not trustworthy, but also some big movements of what Rebecca has uncovered and who she does trust. Can’t wait for more books and to see how it plays out, how the team continues to develop, and how her relationships are doing with Ryker and friends!
December 19, 2023
Latest in the series , but no the least. Mary and Lori wrote another fast paced thrilling book. There is a robbery gone wrong at the local bank before Rebecca can even take a breather. No clues only clown imposter and huge mess. Rebecca is relieved when FBI comes to help with the case and with them Benson, her favorite colleague. The case is strange and Rebecca feels, there’s something more than plain robbery. There is another robbery and attempt to get rid of the sherif. Rebecca decides to share with Benson her suspicions of the Yacht club involved and decides to give him all papers and evidence she has. Some clues come and eventually they try to apprehend the robber. The story is so tense, I could not stop reading. The plot ,the villain views and
Rebecca’ actions kept me guessing. Will the hidden enemy be caught and finally punished? Or did Rebecca put herself in terrible danger?!
Rebecca’ actions kept me guessing. Will the hidden enemy be caught and finally punished? Or did Rebecca put herself in terrible danger?!
December 20, 2023
Just when you think that a break may be coming for Sheriff West a bank robbery occurs. This is actually good news for the sheriff since the FBI investigates bank robberies. And the lead on this case is her old friend and mentor. After painstakingly pulling together all the old and new cases she presents them to her old friend. They all agree there is just too much crime on this tiny island. Is it the Yacht Club or are there bigger fish to fry. The staties are also taken notice since many cases fell through at their end of the process. Finally, the help and review this small police force has needed has arrived. But what is going on for Rebecca and her personal safety. She has definitely kicked a hornet's nest. Can't wait for the next few books in this series. Things are definitely heating up!
December 23, 2023
Another great ARC in the Shadow series. This book continues the story of Rebecca West and her journey on Shadow Island. She came to Shadow Island to recover from an incident as an FBI Agent, then she becomes the Sheriff of the Island. This book start with a bank robbery that sort of goes wrong with the bank manager being killed. As she and her deputies investigate, all they get are more questions and no answers. Then the FBI arrive because its a bank robbery with a death. Can Rebecca use the FBI to get more info the Yacht Club. As she shares her theory with her old boss, she gets him interested and he starts offering some help . Then as they close in on the bank robber, Rebecca realizes that this may involve the Yacht Club. This book, like all the rest grabs you from the beginning.
December 24, 2023
Rebecca’s Not Laughing
Sheriff Rebecca West and her deputies are investigating a bank robbery committed by a clown. The bank manager was shot and is fighting for his life. The suspect was able to get away and the tellers were unable to give much of a description since he wore a clown mask. Due to this being a bank robbery along with a shooting, the FBI is called in on the case. Rebecca’s mentor and friend, Agent Benson, is the one assigned to help with the bank robbery. Will they find out who robbed the bank? Is the Yacht Club involved? What did the robber really want?
Rebecca believes that the bank robbery somehow involves the Yacht Club. She made comments out in the public about the Yacht Club, which she calls the Aqua Mafia. Ryker is concerned that she is calling attention to herself along with putting them in danger. Will Rebecca’s action put more of a strain on her and Ryker’s relationship?
Agent Benson starts to question all the crime that is happening now that Rebecca is sheriff. She finally tells him her suspicions and provides him with copies of cases that should have been logged and dealt with. Agent Benson is surprised to see how many files Rebecca has found not logged or reported. He agrees to take them back and have his team look into the case files. What will Agent Benson find? Will he agree to help Rebecca take down the Yacht Club?
Shadow’s Hoax has all the drama, action and suspense to keep you entertained until the end of the book. Looking forward to the next book.
Sheriff Rebecca West and her deputies are investigating a bank robbery committed by a clown. The bank manager was shot and is fighting for his life. The suspect was able to get away and the tellers were unable to give much of a description since he wore a clown mask. Due to this being a bank robbery along with a shooting, the FBI is called in on the case. Rebecca’s mentor and friend, Agent Benson, is the one assigned to help with the bank robbery. Will they find out who robbed the bank? Is the Yacht Club involved? What did the robber really want?
Rebecca believes that the bank robbery somehow involves the Yacht Club. She made comments out in the public about the Yacht Club, which she calls the Aqua Mafia. Ryker is concerned that she is calling attention to herself along with putting them in danger. Will Rebecca’s action put more of a strain on her and Ryker’s relationship?
Agent Benson starts to question all the crime that is happening now that Rebecca is sheriff. She finally tells him her suspicions and provides him with copies of cases that should have been logged and dealt with. Agent Benson is surprised to see how many files Rebecca has found not logged or reported. He agrees to take them back and have his team look into the case files. What will Agent Benson find? Will he agree to help Rebecca take down the Yacht Club?
Shadow’s Hoax has all the drama, action and suspense to keep you entertained until the end of the book. Looking forward to the next book.
December 19, 2023
Who isn’t creeped out by clowns? The story opens with a bank robbery and the thief is dressed like a clown.
Once again the Yacht Club aka the Aqua Mafia are creating havoc for Sheriff Rebecca West. It is so easy to get immersed in Shadow’s Hoax and just read, read and keep reading. This book is just that good!
With the help of the FBI Rebecca is coming closer to taking down the Yacht Club and solving their many crimes.
Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes have created a superb thriller in the latest book in the Shadow Island series…is Rebecca putting herself in danger? You bet! Cannot wait for the next in this series.
Once again the Yacht Club aka the Aqua Mafia are creating havoc for Sheriff Rebecca West. It is so easy to get immersed in Shadow’s Hoax and just read, read and keep reading. This book is just that good!
With the help of the FBI Rebecca is coming closer to taking down the Yacht Club and solving their many crimes.
Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes have created a superb thriller in the latest book in the Shadow Island series…is Rebecca putting herself in danger? You bet! Cannot wait for the next in this series.
July 21, 2024
Strong series with plenty of twists and intrigue. More comradery has grown within Rebecca's deputy team and good changes are underway. A complicated bank robbery and 2 attempted murders provide more info/fuel for the Yacht Club sic: Aqua Mafia files. A close friend in the FBI is in place to assist with both the robbery and the additional fallouts associated. Ryker and Rebecca's relationship is touched on briefly but not any type of focus in the story. At least there is a stated 2-week window between the end of this murder and the announcement of the next problem that sets up the next book.
December 27, 2023
Wait, does this clown belong here? Wow! Another Shadow Island Book my Mary Stone. This one was as good as the others if not better. To think how much trouble The Yacht Club has caused. When will it end, the thought that they are probably involved in this crime and clown.
I could not put the book down. I really enjoyed reading this book and I think you will enjoy it also. You should really read the whole series so you can get the background or Sheriff West and the Deputies, also The Yacht Club. What they have all been through you'll never believe.
I could not put the book down. I really enjoyed reading this book and I think you will enjoy it also. You should really read the whole series so you can get the background or Sheriff West and the Deputies, also The Yacht Club. What they have all been through you'll never believe.
December 19, 2023
Shadow's Hoax brings you spooky clowns, bank heist and shootings. It keeps your interest as the story unfolds and makes you try to put the links together. Who is behind all the nastiness directed at Sheriff Stella Knox? Are the Water Mafia/Yacht Club members behind the current crime spree or is it the work of a lone wolf? The only part of this novel I wasn't overly happy with is the ending. I felt there was more that could have been tied up. Overall, a good story.
December 19, 2023
Book begins with a Monday morning bank robbery in town at opening time. There are three tellers and the bank manager, Arthur Carson.. The odd est thing on this attempt to rob the bank is the culprit is wearing a clown mask and clothes. When police arrive they find Arthur Carson has been shot, the tellers have all been locked in a nearby room.
The hunt is on to find this person. Rebecca and her team have their work cut out for them. This book will keep you reading right to the surprising ending.
The hunt is on to find this person. Rebecca and her team have their work cut out for them. This book will keep you reading right to the surprising ending.
December 27, 2023
The aqua Mafia is at it again. Rebecca has had the FBI in her island investigating.
A bank robbery that doesn’t make sense. A house intrusion that gives more than expected. FBI and State Troopers in the wrong places or right if your crooked. Rebecca is the new sheriff and can’t find the bottom of the hole the island has been put in. But all she and her crew can do is the best they can so thats what they do.
A bank robbery that doesn’t make sense. A house intrusion that gives more than expected. FBI and State Troopers in the wrong places or right if your crooked. Rebecca is the new sheriff and can’t find the bottom of the hole the island has been put in. But all she and her crew can do is the best they can so thats what they do.
January 21, 2024
Good book
A bank robbery, the tellers are ok but the BANK manager is beaten and shot. A realtor walks in to check on a house she's going to list to find a guy in a mask with a gun, she sprays him with pepper spray, runs out & calls the police. They show up find the bank bags, the FBI get involved they find lots of bloods that's been cleaned up. Another crazy crime for Shadow Island.
A bank robbery, the tellers are ok but the BANK manager is beaten and shot. A realtor walks in to check on a house she's going to list to find a guy in a mask with a gun, she sprays him with pepper spray, runs out & calls the police. They show up find the bank bags, the FBI get involved they find lots of bloods that's been cleaned up. Another crazy crime for Shadow Island.
December 15, 2023
Rebecca is in the middle of renovations of the sheriffs office. Now she's been informed that someone is trying to buy her house. Then the bank is robbed and the bank manager is shot. Why? Their suspect is still at large on the island. The FBI is called in and Rebecca has support from an old friend who she thinks can help her with the cases that haven't been pursued. Murder and mayhem abound.
December 17, 2023
Why did someone rob a local bank and destroy the bank in the process? Were they acting alone or was someone directing them to hit that particular bank. And staying on The island doesn’t seem like a bright idea either. Rebecca and crew seem to have their hands full and let’s add the FBI to the scene. Just another day in Paradise.
December 19, 2023
Rebecca is drawn into a new case as a robber dressed as a clown robs an island bank & shoots the manager. The FBI, led by her former instructor, is assigned to work with her & her team to find the robber. As they investigate, more info is found that may lead to the Yacht Club. Will the FBI help her to solve more than one crime. This was a real page turner that won’t disappoint!
December 20, 2023
This is one of my favorite series by Mary Stone and it does not disappoint. A fast paced gripping story which keeps you hooked until you reach the end. It has it all, great characters, action, twists & turns, suspense and is a page turner. I know the next book in the series will be just as great and I cannot wait to read it.
I am an ARC member and this is my honest review.
I am an ARC member and this is my honest review.
January 1, 2024
Shadow's Hoax( Shadow Island FBI Mystery Series Book 12)
This book did not disappoint, it was truly epic. I hope that they finally bring down the Yacht Club, once and for all. I hope Sheriff West survives and continues to be Sheriff. I hope that Ryker and Rebecca stay together and live happily ever after. I just hope there are more books.
This book did not disappoint, it was truly epic. I hope that they finally bring down the Yacht Club, once and for all. I hope Sheriff West survives and continues to be Sheriff. I hope that Ryker and Rebecca stay together and live happily ever after. I just hope there are more books.
January 7, 2024
the Yacht Club depredations continue
A young man - yet experienced in bank heists - is directed to rob Shadow Island’s bank, yet somehow the cash isn’t his only focus.
The FBI attends the bank robbery and more duplicity among the ranks of local law enforcement is revealed.
The Yacht Club tentacles grasp becomes more evident by the end of this installment.
A young man - yet experienced in bank heists - is directed to rob Shadow Island’s bank, yet somehow the cash isn’t his only focus.
The FBI attends the bank robbery and more duplicity among the ranks of local law enforcement is revealed.
The Yacht Club tentacles grasp becomes more evident by the end of this installment.
January 20, 2024
Shadow series
Excellent series!!! All Mary Stone books are excellent!....well written and very quick follow up books coming out.I love the character development and the meat to the plots. No one will be disappointed in anything written by this author.There are an abundance of characters that will satisfy even the luckiest of readers
Excellent series!!! All Mary Stone books are excellent!....well written and very quick follow up books coming out.I love the character development and the meat to the plots. No one will be disappointed in anything written by this author.There are an abundance of characters that will satisfy even the luckiest of readers
January 20, 2024
Shadow's Hoax (Shadow Island FBI Mystery Series Book) By: Mary Stone and Lori Rhodes. Sheriff Rebecca West is in over her head with the yacht club! FBI Agent In Charge Benson and a dear colleague is involved now . This book was a hell of a page turner. It’s a series that is so enticing, addictive!!!!
February 19, 2024
Shadow Island is the best!
I have read so many mysteries in my life from Agatha Christie to J.D.Robb and I think these by Mary Stone are on of my favorite to add to my list. They are entertaining and scary to say the least but also funny. Everyone I’ve read has kept me reading not wanting to put down and not just this series.
I have read so many mysteries in my life from Agatha Christie to J.D.Robb and I think these by Mary Stone are on of my favorite to add to my list. They are entertaining and scary to say the least but also funny. Everyone I’ve read has kept me reading not wanting to put down and not just this series.
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September 15, 2024What a series!
I have read a few books from differ series by Mary Stone, but I can't stop reading these! Tense action with believable characters - I finish one book and immediately go to the next! They are fairly short, so you can move on to the next book quickly.
My greatest fear is that I'll read too fast and have to wait for the final books!
I have read a few books from differ series by Mary Stone, but I can't stop reading these! Tense action with believable characters - I finish one book and immediately go to the next! They are fairly short, so you can move on to the next book quickly.
My greatest fear is that I'll read too fast and have to wait for the final books!
August 25, 2025
Quick read
The crime on Shadows Island just became worse with a silent alarm from the bank. This crime and shooting of the bank manager spills out into a break-in of a house to be listed for sale. And addition evidence. Rebecca, her deputies and now the FBI are all in on the investigation.
The crime on Shadows Island just became worse with a silent alarm from the bank. This crime and shooting of the bank manager spills out into a break-in of a house to be listed for sale. And addition evidence. Rebecca, her deputies and now the FBI are all in on the investigation.
September 1, 2025
Shadows Hoax was a great read. Hard to put down.
This was one of Mary Stones good ones. Interesting characters. Good plot.
My only complaint is her overuse of phrases. I.e. "she tucked the loose hair behind her ear. " It was used at least twice in this book and repeatedly in previous books.
But all in all a book I would recommend.
This was one of Mary Stones good ones. Interesting characters. Good plot.
My only complaint is her overuse of phrases. I.e. "she tucked the loose hair behind her ear. " It was used at least twice in this book and repeatedly in previous books.
But all in all a book I would recommend.
December 18, 2023
Received ARC
What do a bank robbery, a home invasion, & an upcoming election have in common? The Aqua Mafia (aka The Yacht Club) of course! And Rebecca is again smack dab in the middle of the fallout. Follow along for an edge of your seat, page-turning, fast paced mystery.
What do a bank robbery, a home invasion, & an upcoming election have in common? The Aqua Mafia (aka The Yacht Club) of course! And Rebecca is again smack dab in the middle of the fallout. Follow along for an edge of your seat, page-turning, fast paced mystery.
December 19, 2023
ANOTHER GREAT READ IN THIS SERIES. THE STORYLINE IS ORIGINAL AND GRABS YOU AND WON'T LET GO TILL THE END. PLENTY OF TWISTS AND TURNS TO KEEP YOU TURNING PAGES TILL THE END. WELL WRITTEN WITH GREAT CHARACTERS. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND THE OTHERS IN THE SERIES.
December 23, 2023
Couldn't Put it Down
A bank robbery by a clown who is obviously working for someone. Unfortunately, there are many loose ends. Does the bank manager live as well as the robber who was willing to give evidence? There will be a sequel; hopefully, it won't take too long.
A bank robbery by a clown who is obviously working for someone. Unfortunately, there are many loose ends. Does the bank manager live as well as the robber who was willing to give evidence? There will be a sequel; hopefully, it won't take too long.
December 24, 2023
Shadow*s Hoax
This is more than a five star book. I could not put this book down . The suspense is great. I can' wait for the next book.But Mary it is time to put the yacht club out of business. They have gone on long enough. I highly recommend this book and series.
This is more than a five star book. I could not put this book down . The suspense is great. I can' wait for the next book.But Mary it is time to put the yacht club out of business. They have gone on long enough. I highly recommend this book and series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews