Grave Deception

Maisie Doss Mysteries #3

by Tonya Kappes

From Tonya Kappes, the Queen of Southern Charm and Hang on the edge of your seat Whodunits...

Immerse yourself in the allure of the South, where the tea is sweet, the mysteries are deep, and the humor is downright sinful. Tonya Kappes, celebrated for her delightful mix of southern charm, captivating mysteries, and wickedly funny humor, introduces a brand-new amateur sleuth that's bound to become a reader favorite.

Dive into the Maisie Doss Mysteries and get ready for a roller coaster of emotions, suspense, and laughter. If you've loved her previous series, this new addition promises all the signature Kappes charm and then some. Join Maisie as she dances on the edge of danger and digs deep into the heart of the South's most intriguing crimes. It's a journey you won't want to miss!

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery

156 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 25, 2024

About the author

Beloved cozy mystery author Tonya Kappes is bringing her charming world to the screen!

The Hallmark Channel is thrilled to announce a television series in development based on Tonya’s wildly popular 40-book series, A Camper & Criminals Mystery.

A celebrated Amazon All-Star and USA Today bestselling author, Tonya has written over 180 southern cozy mysteries filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable small-town characters. Her novels, known for their southern charm and rich emotional storytelling, have been praised by readers and critics alike, earning her a coveted spot as a Woman's World Book Club Pick six times.

Writing full-time from her camper, Tonya crafts worlds where mystery, friendship, and a little mischief collide — and now, her stories will come to life for cozy mystery lovers everywhere.

Visit Tonya:
Facebook at Author Tonya Kappes,
https://www.facebook.com/authortonyak...

Webpage
tonyakappes.com

Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

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https://twitter.com/tonyakappes11

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https://www.pinterest.com/tonyakappes/

For weekly updates and contests, sign up for Tonya's newsletter Kappes Krew Weekly via her website or Facebook.For years,

Reviews

[Tonya Kappes]

HAPPY HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!!


Escape today!!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie Doss is back in her third official investigation as a CI. This time she’s accidentally pulled into an investigation while trying to keep her secrets from Wes. Wes is an investigator whose interest sometimes focus more on Maisie than she’d like. Maisie goes undercover at a horse stable where she thinks she investigating horse betting, but she quickly finds out it so much more. Can she help break the case without getting herself killed?

Once again Tonya Kappes weaves together a great storyline with mystery, southern charm, humor, and a touch of romance. In this hard-boiled cozy Maisie isn’t your typical innocent and naive protagonist. Maisie knows how to bend the rules and truth when needed. She a strong female, who is loyal to her family and friends, but will not hesitate to do whatever it takes to protect her loved ones or serve justice to those who need it. The mystery is well-written with plenty of suspense and well place red herrings. This is quickly becoming a favorite series for me.


All opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.

[Dwayne Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to the world of Maisie Doss. Maisie is a CI for the FBI and gets pulled into a case at the local horse racing venue. Every time the FBI gets close, they get shut down. Maisie gets a job mucking out horse stalls while trying to get close to the bosses to find out what is really going down. What starts out as a betting scam blows up into something much, much larger. Will Maisie get the information she needs or will she get found out? Plenty of twists and turns fill the story until its incredible end.

[Ashley Yungbluth · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Grave Deception" is book three in the "Maisie Doss Mystery" series by Tonya Kappes. I am really enjoying this newer series by Tonya. It's a little more suspenseful than her other series, and I like Maisie's character. Maisie is going undercover to help find out what is going on, and she figures things out a little on the late side. This book definitely had me reading straight through to see what was going to happen.

[Sonja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tonya Kappes' books are always interesting reads, with down to earth, relatable characters, and "on the edge of your seat" situations for them to escape and conquer. I enjoyed this read.

[Helen Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Maisie Doss series is a really mystery/suspense series. As Maisie serves as a CI, it’s always something that involves danger. Maisie has to use her wits to stay one step ahead of real danger and to catch the person in charge of the crime.

This one really kept me guessing until the very end.

The characters in Maisie’s town including her relative and friends care about each other and are the kind of people you want to hang with. The people she is working for are realistic and one never knows what to expect from them.

I was fortunate to read an advanced copy and look forward to reading the next installment in the entertaining series.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Deception is the thrilling, fast-paced, third novel in the Maisie Doss series by Tonya Kappes. Maisie is one of the author’s more unique characters, and I have enjoyed walking vicariously in her boots! Maisie is courageous, confident, and tough, responding to situations so differently than this reader could. Yet had I walked in those boots for as many years as she had, I would hope for the courage to react the same way. This time, we see her trying to keep her vulnerabilities deeply buried. She can run from the US Marshal who wants a big part of her life, and snuggle privately with a tiny kitten. Drink the ‘shine, and take one more CI job, the most challenging one she’s had.

It is set in a small town in Kentucky, a short drive from Cincinnati. Camp Springs may not be a middle-class town, but Southern charm is still very real. I could picture and enjoy the bluegrass band and appreciate the joy and camaraderie at the tavern. Maisie’s ability to see the beauty of the area, even amidst life-threatening challenges, is remarkable!

Maisy and her best friend Dixie had been receiving threatening letters about what they did to Earl, Dixie’s husband who they thought was dead. Wes, one of the US Marshals that she had been a confidential informant to, learned about Earl. Out of concern for her, he had gone into her apartment, taken the threats, and questioned her. When Wes was away from his car, she found the letters in the glove box, took them, and disappeared. In the process, she was pulled for another CI assignment.

Officer Brime gave Maisie instructions for the job she would begin the next day. She was only to listen, observe, and report anything regarding a big money scheme involving the Federal Reserve, money laundering, and gambling. Every time they closed in on the shot caller, another big setback occurred. She would be a stall worker in a horse barn of a nearby horse track.

Alice, her immediate boss at the racetrack, appreciated how fast of a learner and hard worker Maisie was. They became friends of a sort, and Alice invited her into the secret financial dealings offered only to a special few. Monty, who she thought to be the brains of the outfit, seemed to take a liking to Maisie. She was soon wearing a beautiful dress he bought for her and attending a secret meeting of “investors”, where he was almost murdered.

This novel offers some of the author’s most creative and skillful writing. I was immediately taken on a wild ride from where Dixie’s husband had been buried, to the racetrack, to the private party for a few wealthy and want-to-be wealthy of the area. The entire story, how Maisie lived out the undercover assignment as a confidential informant, is infused with the highest degree of urgency.

I was completely surprised at the identity of whodunit! I did not see that coming! The risks Maisie assumed, her work ethic, and her concern for others were amazing! Each of the novels can be read as standalones, but to me, it would be better to read them in order as each one led into the next. I highly recommend them, this one especially, to those who like edgier and less genteel characters and cases while still being a small-town, clean-read, and challenging mystery.

From a thankful heart: I received an uncorrected copy of this novel, and this is my honest review.

[Mary Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Deception
A Maisie Doss Mystery, Book #3
Tonya Kappes
5 Stars

Synopsis:

In the tight-knit, secretive community of Camp Springs, undercover work is a dangerous game, and Maisie Doss is playing for keeps. When a series of mysterious events pulls her deeper into a web of deceit and crime, Maisie finds herself entangled in a high-stakes operation involving the Federal Reserve, illicit fortunes, and deadly secrets. With a target on her back and trust a rare commodity, Maisie must navigate treacherous alliances, expose a cunning mastermind, and protect those she loves.
From the serene horse trails of Kentucky to the shadowy corridors of the Federal Reserve, "Grave Deception" weaves a thrilling tale of intrigue, betrayal, and a woman determined to unravel the truth. With romance blooming amidst the chaos and danger lurking at every turn, Maisie Doss faces the ultimate challenge—surviving her most perilous mission yet.
Perfect for fans of fast-paced mysteries and heart-stopping suspense, "Grave Deception" will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

From Tonya Kappes, the Queen of Southern Charm and Hang on the edge of your seat Whodunits...

Immerse yourself in the allure of the South, where the tea is sweet, the mysteries are deep, and the humor is downright sinful. Tonya Kappes, celebrated for her delightful mix of southern charm, captivating mysteries, and wickedly funny humor, introduces a brand-new amateur sleuth that's bound to become a reader favorite.

Dive into the Maisie Doss Mysteries and get ready for a roller coaster of emotions, suspense, and laughter. If you've loved her previous series, this new addition promises all the signature Kappes charm and then some. Join Maisie as she dances on the edge of danger and digs deep into the heart of the South's most intriguing crimes. It's a journey you won't want to miss! (Amazon)

Review:

The characters are well rounded and well developed. Maisie finds herself involved in illegal horse racing. She is doing what she must do to infiltrate and find out all she can about the illegal racing and report to the FBI. But things are not what they seem and Maisie will need all of her street smarts to try and figure it all out.

The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and it was not easily solved.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. Give this book a try and see what Maisie has been up to.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and provided my honest review.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taking place in the small town of Camp Springs, on the outskirts of Cincinnati we find Maisie Doss and her friend Dixie the recipients of threatening letters from Dixie's abusive ex-husband who they thought was dead. When Wes, the US Marshall she worked undercover for finds the letters, she has to find a way to get them back and destroy them. At the same time Brime, her FBI handler wants her to go undercover at a horse racing venue so they can take down what the FBI sees as an illegal operation. So she becomes a barn hand, mucking stalls and taking care of the race horses. Alice, her immediate supervisor like how Maisie is strong, fast and a good worker, she befriends her and lets her into a possible scheme that could double her money, but she has to pass the boss, Monty's muster to get in. And she does. With her ear close to the ground and getting close to the principals in the case, she hopes to connect the dots and find out the information the FBI needs to take the operation down. But it seem all is NOT as it seems and there is much more to the operation than even the FBI knew. Can she get to the meat of the case for the FBI while maintaining her cover as well as keeping herself safe? This is a great book and addition to the series. Maisie is a tough woman although she has a lot of deep seated anxieties. And Wes, wants to get closer to Maisie. I can't wait to see what Maisie gets into next and where the relationship with Wes goes. I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie Doss may be one of my new favorite fictional characters. She is fearless and quite intelligent. She definitely has some skeletons in her closet, but everyone deserves a second chance. She is a confidential information for law enforcement. Because of her background, she can fit in well wherever she goes.

Her newest assignment is at the horse race track. Mucking stalls is not her first career choice, but it will get her foot in the door so she can worm her way into whatever is going on at the track. There is definitely something hinky going on. Maisie is definitely the best woman for the job.

This is a fantastic mystery. No big surprise there, but I am always pleasantly surprised by just how good these stories are in this series. There is still the signature southern charm that I expect to see in a book written by this author, but there is a seriousness to the plotline in this story that make it an easy read for a mystery lover. There is also a little action and intrigue in the story as well. I love the fact that Maisie is fully capable of taking care of herself. She is not only intelligent, but she has street smarts as well. This is another winner for the Maisie Doss series.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Deception is another entertaining installment in Kappes' Maisie Doss mystery series. This new series is quickly becoming a favorite, and this newest installment definitely didn't disappoint. This installment takes Maisie to the tracks as Maisie finds herself investigating what she thinks is a horse betting ring. Working at the stables, Maisie gets pulled into a case much bigger than she had originally thought. Maisie needs to keep her eyes and ears open to break this case.

Kappes sets up an entertaining mystery that captures the reader's interest from the beginning and doesn't let go. The book is full of enough twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. Maisie is a strong female character, and in this book the reader gets to see her working a case without Wes needing to rely on herself. I like seeing Maisie's growth as a character as this series progresses. I also loved seeing my favorite secondary characters back as well. Overall Grave Deception proved to be a great read that I would most definitely recommend.

Received a copy of Grave Deception from the author.

[Theresa A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some Southern women are sweet like a slice of pie, while others are more like a bracing sip of whiskey. Maisie Doss falls into the latter category! She’s a hard-headed and focused confidential informant (CI) who will go to great lengths to protect her family and friends. Maisie walks a fine line in her role as a CI, skillfully navigating the complexities of her work.
Currently, Maisie is immersed in a case involving horse racing and gambling. But there’s a potential complication: her best friend Dixie’s ex-husband, Earl. Lesson learned—next time, they’ll need to double-check that Earl is truly dead before leaving his body! Earl wants a trial, which could jeopardize Maisie’s CI position.
Despite the challenges, Maisie excels at blending into any situation. She’s a master at fitting in seamlessly. On top of her involvement in the new case, Maisie’s relationship with Wes is still on shaky ground. Things are heating up between them, and Maisie must sort out her feelings while also uncovering what’s happening at the race track. This gripping story promises an exciting ride alongside Maisie!

[Judy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting and fast-paced are what you get in this third installment of this Maise Doss mystery. No spoilers or story recap in this REVIEW, because you just NEED to read the book for the fullest enjoyment. This mystery takes place at the horse track where crazy things are happening and gambling is involved and the FBI needs some help. Maisie, who is a CI, is tough, independent, and capable as she sorts her way through this well-written, easy-to-read mystery that will keep the reader anxiously turning the pages and making that inward promise of "just one more chapter" until you realize you are at the end. Everything is wrapped up nicely and doesn't leave the reader scratching their head. BUT, you'll be second-guessing yourself until the culprit is revealed!
Although this is a bit different (not quite as soft) as her other books, I recommend it wholeheartedly. Can be read as a standalone - the backstory is well woven into the book, however, you'll certainly want to go back and read the others! Get this book, you won't be sorry.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Grave Deception” by Tonya Kappes is a joy to read. I love the depth and non-perfect main characters, Maisie. She loves and is loyal to her family and friends. I also liked that I learned about Kentucky.

I love mystery books. To me, this was an enjoyable read. If not for work and sleep I would have finished it sooner. I recommend to all readers, but especially cozy mystery fans.

I received this e-book as a Goodreads giveaway. Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read this book.

Based on the giveaway date and the published date, I believe that I received a copy of the final version. Therefore, I gave this 4 stars rather than 5 stars due to two items I think need to be updated. Chapter 4 indicates that Alice purchased lunch for Maisie, but Chapter 5 indicates that Alice purchased the beer for Maisie since Maisie bought lunch - inconsistency. On page 37, I believe “in a way the made my…” should be “in a way that made my….”

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Deception is the third book in the Maisie Doss Mysteries. I’m a huge fan of Tonya’s cozies, but really love her new series. It's much darker and less Dottie-esque. I really love the complexity of the characters and plot.

Maisie is an extraordinarily complex character with a complicated past and an uncertain future ahead of her. In Grave Deception, Maisie is recruited into another CI case. The new case involves horseracing, racinos, the US Reserve, and danger around every corner.

This book was fantastic. Grave Deception is an edge-of-your seat kind of mystery. There are twists and turns that take the reader on a wild ride. The author also continues the story revolving around a domestic issue with an old friend and side stories with friends, family, and co-workers. The author set the mystery up well and I was shocked at how everything played out. Well done!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie Doss gets herself into trouble while working as a Confidential Informant (CI) on a case involving horse racing and gambling. It turns out it involves a lot more than that.

Maisie and other family members have been in trouble with the law before and she has learned a lot over the years. This helps her when she’s called upon as a CI. She’s good at taking care of herself in most cases, but sometimes she needs help and hopes it’s there when needed. Maisie is stubborn, feisty, sassy, and can fit in just about anywhere.

This is an awesome series, a little rougher than Tonya’s other cozy mysteries.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Javon50 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going undercover for the FBI can be dangerous as Maisie Doss has discovered. When she is told that her next assignment will be as a stall worker at the Florence Turfway Park she is all in thinking she will be dealing with illegal gambling. What she discovers is more complicated and involved than she ever imagined. Instead of investigating illegal betting she finds that there is a deeper plot involving the Federal Reserve. How deeply will Maisie have to delve into the deceptions all around her without becoming a victim herself. Maisie Doss is a tough country girl who is often in over her head but can finagle her way out of dangerous situations. This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Tara Kat (MagnoliaPigeonBookBlurbs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maisie Doss is back and the stakes are higher than ever!! The third installment of the Maisie Doss Mystery series is full of heart pounding action, nail biting suspense, undercover investigations, a hint of romance and of course - Kentucky Charm! Grave Deception is a wild ride from page 1 and had me on the edge of my seat until the very last page!

Nail Biting Suspense
Horse Racing
Undercover Investigation
Hint of Romance
3rd in the Series
Kentucky Charm
Thrilling Mystery
Cabin in the Woods
Adorable Kitten
Goodbye Earl Vibes

I am loving the Maisie Doss Mystery Series so much and can’t wait to see what will happen next!

Sidenote: Reading this series seriously has me craving Skyline Chili and missing the heck out of Kentucky! 🐎

[Deb Spalding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Deception is a fast, easy read that keeps the reader guessing at each twist and turn. This story is located in the southern town of Camp Springs, Kentucky. Hard to find southern belles in this town but will find loads of charm. The main character is Maisie Doss. She is a rough character who values friendship and loyalty above all else. Maisie is once again given a confidential informant job. She is assigned to a local racetrack to make observations, apprise situations and report back to her superiors.

There are several things happening at the same time that keeps the reader on their toes.
This book is one I read cover to cover in a day. I needed to know the ending as it had a surprise conclusion. Grave Deception did not disappoint!

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maisie Doss is quite the enterprising character. As she goes undercover at a horse track in her confidential informant role, things quickly heat up.

I think the Maisie Doss series is shaping up to be one of my favorites from Tonya Kappes. I like that Maisie is a strong independent woman and can get things done. It seems like she has a sense of right and wrong, but is quick to bend the rules to help friends and family.

The twists and turns of this story keep you interested in what is happening next. I felt the killer was a surprise as well as the storyline involving the Federal Reserve. Not sure that really could happen, but hey! It’s fiction. I like that she and Wes are approaching an understanding.

I look forward to more in this series

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie Doss is a confidential informant for the FBI. She has a tough outer shell and an internal compass that she follows to tell her right from wrong. In her latest assignment she is working at a horse park mucking out stalls and she thinks that she is there to get information about illegal gambling. There is so much more going on than she first realizes and Maisie may be in danger by getting too close to the people involved. I really love this new series and it kept me guessing until the end.

I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Michelle Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncover work can be dangerous, funny, suspenseful and deadly. In this 3rd book of the Maisie Doss series and Maisie is still working as a CI for the police. Maisie knows she has to do whatever it takes to get the job done even if that includes mucking out horse stalls. Something is not right at the horse track and its Maisie's job to find out what it is. I love the town setting of Camp Springs, Kentucky. it has charm, grace, deception and enough southern charm to keep you drawn in. This book had tons of twists and turns and will definitely keep you on your toes. Another homerun for Tonya !

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie is immersed in a case involving horse racing and gambling. But there’s a potential complication: her best friend Dixie’s ex-husband, Earl. Lesson learned—next time, they’ll need to double-check that Earl is truly dead before leaving his body! Earl wants a trial, which could jeopardize Maisie’s CI position. Fortunately, Maisie is a class act and always solves the case. Tonya is really developing Maisie’s character and the characters of the others featured throughout the Maisie books. I can’t wait for the next addition to the continuing story of Maisie and her friends.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie Doss, a product the Kentucky backwoods who was once running from the police, keeps finding herself working undercover for those same police! In what is undeniably her most perilous of challenges, Maisie must wade through all manner of chaos and deceit to reach the mastermind who has their sights set on the Federal Rest! Can she navy the dangers that could easily end her life? I love Maisie and all the characters surrounding her! This is a nail-biter with a touch of humor and a sprinkling of romance! Touche Tonya Kappes!

[Jodi Skeen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maisie Doss has a lot of spunk and isn’t afraid to buck the system when a friend is on the line. Plus she’s up for danger when the cops need her to be.

I thought Maisie had bit off more than she could chew this time, but she came through this time and kept Wes. Not to mention her new kitten to cuddle.

Her family is always there for her along with her friends, helping her make the right decisions and reminding her to be careful. even with all that I was surprised at who the culprit ended up being. Can’t wait to find out what she gets up to next.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book (and the ones before it) was so easy to read in one fell swoop because it’s just that good and compelling. The urge to keep reading is real. This series has just the perfect amount of thriller elements but nothing overly scary or any guts or anything, so I’m all about that type, a kinda cozy thriller. I like the idea of the action just continuing and trust me, there’s never a quiet moment where Maisie, Wes and Brime are concerned! Can’t wait to see what they get into next since this case really seemed to tire Maisie out.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tonya Kappes has another gem here! This is #3 in the Maisie Doss series. Maisie is a CI for the FBI. This time she's working a case at the racetrack. Maisie is strong, sassy and very relatable. She's a little more "hard boiled" than Tonya's other cozy mystery characters. This book is a mix of compelling mystery, southern charm and humor. The red herrings, twisty plot and fast pace kept me glued to the pages. I was surprised by "whodunit." Definitely 5 stars! Thank you Tonya Kappes Books and Goodreads for my giveaway copy.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maisie Doss is back and acting as a CI in a very deadly and dangerous case. She must use her top skills to get her by. This was a good mystery and it was good to see who was the brains behind this crime. Maisie was also vulnerable in this one, and I can't wait to see what she does next.
The narrator, Tiffany Morgan does a wonderful job portraying Maisie and many of the other characters. The tones and inflections used were great. If you're looking to dive into a cozy mystery series be sure to check this one out.

A very special thanks to Tantor Audio for the gifted audiobook.

[Miki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this one, my favourite in this series so far.
I loved to see Maisie doing a job not just to gain something and how she reacted with Wes when not working together and a little Kitten made me appreciate her even more like seeing how she was with horses

The investigation is really well built to keep us on edge with several twists

i recommend this story that can still be read as a stand alone since she tells us about her background

[Julia David · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is getting better and better. Maisie has fallen into it this time. As she is trying to recover some letters that Wes took from her, she ended up accepting another CI job. This one is tricky and dangerous. Maisie has to shoot a man and gets injured in the line of duty. She isn't sure how she will pull this one off because she is in way over her head. Wes is there to back her up all the way, whether she wants him there or not. Can she do it?