Deadly Intent

Sonoma #1

by Camy Tang

The Grant family's exclusive Sonoma spa is a place for rest and relaxation--not murder!

When Naomi Grant finds her client Jessica Ortiz bleeding to death in her massage room, everything falls apart. The salon's reputation is at stake...and so is Naomi's freedom when she discovers that she is one of the main suspects!

Her only solace is found with the other suspect--Dr. Devon Knightley, the victim's ex-husband. But Devon is hiding secrets of his own. When they come to light, where can Naomi turn...and whom can she trust?

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Suspense, Christian, Love Inspired Suspense, Love Inspired, Mystery

236 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Camy writes Christian romantic suspense, contemporary romance, and cozy mystery as Camy Tang and Regency romance under her pen name, Camille Elliot. She grew up in Hawaii but now lives in northern California with her engineer husband and rambunctious dog. She graduated from Stanford University in psychology with a focus on biology, but for nine years she worked as a biologist researcher. Then God guided her path in a completely different direction and now she’s writing full time, using her original psychology degree as she creates the characters in her novels. In her free time, she’s a staff worker for her church youth group and leads one of her church’s Sunday worship teams. She also loves to knit, spin wool into yarn, and is training to (very slowly) run a marathon.

Reviews

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complementary copy of this book and I’m so glad I did.
Camy Tang does an incredible job of packing so much action, suspense, humor and drama in only 212 pages. Wow!! What a different writing style than the one I read in her debut novel Sushi for One, which is a chick’lit style light hearted story. I didn’t know what to expect when I started reading Deadly Intent. Part of me wondered how this chick’lit style writer would write a murder mystery. I was pleasantly surprised and I’m happy to report Camy pens a great who-done-it. I liked the fact that the author kept me guessing up until the very last page. Camy brings the book to a climatic ending that satisfies. Camy had me so hooked to her murder mystery I carried her book with me wherever I went grabbing a few minutes here and there to discover more clues so I could figure out who was behind all these attempted murders and killings.

At the same time Camy Tang touches on issues that cut to the heart of the matter. Because of all the drama and heartache her main character, Naomi, goes through, she starts to wonder about God. Did she really believe in Him and why was God allowing all these bad things to happen to her?

There is something honest and true about Naomi’s struggle—I found out why in the author notes. Camy admits that she had these very same struggles with God that Naomi had in the book, when she was in College. I truly enjoyed this book and the way Camy brought this suspenseful story to life. The characters and their struggles were believable. It was fun to have the setting of this book at a spa. I hope that Camy has the opportunity to write a full length action adventure story. I can only imagine what she could develop with more pages to expand her characters and the plot twists. Way to go Camy!!

Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St.Laurent
The Book Club Network www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book .. I can sense that we all know the lord is here with us always ..

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly Intent marks Camy Tang’s first foray into romantic suspense fiction, and she proves to be as adept at crafting an engaging suspense story as she is at making readers laugh with her “romance with a kick of wasabi” flavored Sushi Series. In Deadly Intent, Naomi Grant, massage therapist and acting manager of the exclusive Joy Luck Life Spa, finds herself trapped in a murderous web of danger and intrigue when one of her clients ends up dead, and suddenly she's a suspect. The victim just happens to be the ex-wife of the very handsome, brooding Dr. Devon Knightley – as the ex-spouse, Devon is the #1 suspect, until a series of subsequent events makes it clear that someone’s not just targeting the spa – they’re intent on framing Naomi for their crimes. Naomi and Devon join forces to clear their names, but can their fledgling attraction to each other survive the threat that surrounds them?

This is definitely one of the strongest Love Inspired Suspense novels that I’ve read. Camy’s skill for characterization and pacing help make this short and sweet read shine. She also shows a flair for building some real tension and threat into the storyline, an element that’s sometimes lacking in LI Suspense reads that focus too heavily on the “love” part of the brand and not enough on the promised “suspense” element. My one complaint about the book is that it's far too short - but that's the nature of the LI series. Camy gives Naomi and Devon wonderful character arcs - they have some real "baggage" to work through while seeking out the killer and falling in love. This is especially true for Devon, as he starts out as an unbeliever - and this is where I wish the novel had more room develop his character's journey. It seems a tad rushed. However, a strong suspenseful plot, engaging characters, and some sizzling romantic tension make this a fun way to while away a few hours. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more suspense from Camy Tang!

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is Camy Tang’s first published romantic suspense, following her contemporary Sushi Series, but I certainly hope it isn’t the last. She brings her trademark snappy style to this book, and cranks up the tension in a first-rate mystery that will have you turning pages all the way to the end.


The setting is a spa in Sonoma, California, owned by the family of heroine Naomi Grant. In true suspense style, the first chapter opens the book with a bang – and ends with a scream as Naomi’s search for a missing spa guest leads her to a gruesome discovery. The handsome ex-husband of the victim seems just as shocked as Naomi… or is he? Detective Carter’s shrewd eyes miss nothing as he investigates the murder. He doesn’t seem convinced by Devon’s protestations of innocence, or by Naomi’s. And the killer seems intent on framing Naomi, and isn't content to stop with just one victim.


A believable cast of characters, tightening suspense, and a developing romance make Deadly Intent one you won’t want to miss.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naomi Grant's family owns the Joy Luck Life Spa in Sonoma, CA. She was the head massage therapist but since her dads stroke she is in charge. When Dr. Devon Knightley comes in the spa she hopes he has come to see her. The last few years she had visited with him at the Zoe International dinners but he never called her.

When Devon said he was looking for Jessica Ortiz Naomi is deflated but not surprised he would be looking for that beauty. As Naomi searches to find Jessica her whole world shifts.

After finding a patron murdered at the spa and then attempts at Devon's life everything starts pointing towards Naomi being guilty.

The suspect and reason for the murders is well hidden through the book. And the mystery is stronger then the romance, which does not make it less at all. Your just busy deciding who the murderer is knowing that the romance will work out. Although Naomi is from a Christian family while Devon's is not, in fact his father is proud to be an atheist. Looking forward to the next book in the series Formula for Danger.

[Shannah Mauney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by Camy Tang and let me tell you, I was enthralled from the beginning! I was very sad that is was such a short story. The character development was quick, but didn't feel rushed. I understand that it had to be because of the length of the story. Still, I felt like I got to know Naomi and Devon in that short time!

The suspense and romance were very well-written! I had no idea what was going to happen or who was behind all the mayhem until Naomi figured it out. That, to me, is a very well done mystery! The romance was sweet. I like that Naomi and Devon had met before the beginning of the story, so the romance didn't feel rushed.

Overall, this was a great story and I will definitely be adding Camy Tang to my must-read author's list!

[Christy Trever · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly Intent by Camy Tang is another arrow in Tang's quiver of fantastic books. Naomi Grant has had to take over the family business, an elite spa Sonoma, after her father's stroke. It's a chore she quickly comes to hate after a murdered woman is discovered and the evidence points to Naomi as the murderer. At first, she suspects Dr. DevonKnightley , ex-husband of the victim, but as the crime spree grows, they are forced to work together to find the real murderer. In the hands of any less able writer, this story would be cliched and timeworn, but Tang makes the characters and their romance fresh and new. Her dialogue is always zippy and her characters well-rounded. This is the ultimate beach read!

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first Camy Tang suspense I have read and it really captured my interest. Set in an elegant spa in Sonoma wine country starts things off just right! Couldn't ask for a better combination. The two main characters, Naomi Grant and Dr. Devon Knightley, find themselves as murder suspects for a death in the Grant's Joy Luck Club Spa. As they work together to try and find the real killer, Naomi struggles with her faith and Devon is searching for his. With lots of possible suspects and a definite twist at the end, this book kept my attention from start to finish. Great cozy mystery.

[Margaret Chind · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly Intent was a very enjoyable read for me as far as mysteries go. I was amazed and completely shocked that I really had no clue as to who the culprit was until late in the game. Usually authors give it away so easily, I loved how Camy really gave you so many different factors that the surprise really is there. I recommend this read easily, and I cannot wait to share it with my mom, because I know she'll love it. The mystery is great, the romantic elements are perfectly appropriate, and the Christian tones are exactly what is needed with the plot line. I love it.

[Mark Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Novelist Camy Tang writes ‘with a kick of wasabi’ as her website is quick to point out. Her first suspense novel, Deadly Intent, has just such a kick. (For an explanation of ‘wasabi’ visit Camy’s website).

Her earlier novels found their niche in contemporary romance as her Asian characters sassed their way through relationships, interfamily relations, and spiritual struggles. Camy’s latest novel launches into the suspense romance genre—murder and intrigue in the picturesque town of Sonoma, California where a massage can be a killer of an experience.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Loved that it took place in Sonoma where I visited last fall and love that it centered around a spa. We love our spas. Great beach read. Real page turner.

[Ladette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stalker in the Shadows by Camy Tang is a Love Inspired Suspense novel. I have read many of her novels (most recently Protection for Hire), but this is only the second of the Love Inspired novels that I've read. I didn't realize when I started the book that it was Book 3 in the Sonoma Series, but it is the third in the set. Fortunately, reading them in order is not a prerequisite.

Monica Grant is one of three daughters of Augustus Grant, owner of an upscale spa in Sonoma. Monica is also a nurse. She is taking care of her father after he experienced a stroke, but is working on raising support to open a Free Children's Clinic in the area. While meeting different potential sponsors, she finds that she is being stalked... someone doesn't want her to open the clinic. She hires Shaun O'Neill to protect her while she continues her efforts towards opening the clinic.

Shaun O'Neill was a border patrol agent, until something happened on his watch. Before that, his sister was killed and he didn't save her... everyone that he should protect dies. Now, he has someone new to protect, Monica. Can he keep her from being killed? Can he solve his sister's death?

As they work together to find the stalker, Shaun and Monica can feel the attraction, but they are both fighting it. Monica has no desire to be in a relationship with a police man, she knows the dangers he faces in the field and doesn't want to be the one left behind. Shaun struggles with his "inability" to protect those he cares about. Can they trust God and find love? Will they find the killer?

Stalker in the Shadows was a quick and easy read. I really enjoyed reading it and the suspense it held. As I said earlier, you don't have to read the first two books (Deady Intent and Formula for Danger) to understand or enjoy Stalker in the Shadows.

[Marji Laine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is more than a suspense novel. The plot weaves in and out of the characters' lives with a master's touch.

Naomi Grant's terror from finding the body of her next massage client at an exclusive Sonoma spa leads to a desperate attempt to solve the mystery. Her very freedom depends on it. At the same time, Dr. Devon Knightley, who becomes a suspect in the death, stirs up both confusion and comfort in an odd mixture for Naomi.

Ms. Tang twists together a perfect mystery set in a beautiful upscale world that most folks will never experience. Her descriptions are exactly balanced with the action while keeping the intensity of the story at just the right level. The story starts like a supersonic train, not uncommon for suspense stories. Unlike many novels, though, the middle of the story is just as exciting as the beginning. The ending, while wrapping up all loose ends, keeps the thrills going. Neither long-winded, nor overly brief, it entirely satisfies.

By the way, when I said perfect, I wasn't using the term loosely. And even though I had NO CLUE which character committed the many crimes, this mystery has definitely taken the top spot of my favorites list.

Wish I could give it a sixth or seventh star on the reviews! I will definitely read every mystery Camy Tang writes from here on in!

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay. Nothing bad, nothing great. It's getting a little higher rating only because I really was interested in what was going to happen between Devon and Naomi. I wanted to know who was after them, but otherwise this book was a bit cheesy.


It's described as an inspirational romantic suspense. The religious references were scattered throughout, but weren't overdone. I actually thought they were well placed and enhanced that aspect of the story. The romantic part wasn't really there. There was an attraction between Devon and Naomi and they pursued it some, but I believe that there was only one mild kiss throughout the whole book. I usually like my romance books to have a little more. As far as the suspense goes, it was done well. I read this book fast because I did want to know the outcome. It was a quick and easy read, but overall, just okay.

[Pygmy · Rating 1 out of 5]

It was when I read Camy Tang's Sushi For One book for the third time that I figured maybe I should try to read something else of hers. I was wary of this book being of the Love Inspired line, since my previous experience with those books were not satisfactory. I hoped that Camy Tang would be able to write beyond my expectations. Unfortunately, she doesn't.

Instead of crafting an interesting, subtle, non-obvious male character, she cuts corners by using the same boring Mr. Handsome template as every other romance novel out there. Other characters are mentioned by name not to build their personalities but only to throw clues as to who will feature in the next book. The writing itself at least does not plod, but neither is it suspensful, tense, mysterious, or anything else. I'll try to finish it eventually since I did buy it, but...

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an excellent book! We read about the first of three Grant sisters. Naomi is currently managing the spa for her father while he recovers from his stroke. She never counted on finding a dying woman in her room, nor did she plan on getting cozy with the woman's ex-husband! Things heat up when both Naomi and Devon are accused of the crime. One has motive, the other has opportunity. They have to join together to solve the crime before one of them gets arrested for murder! And then things get worse...much worse!

The suspense was great. I had no clue where this was going until the author actually dropped a big hint. It's always great to be surprised. The romance was sweet. A few steamy kisses and Devon's trying to protect his girl along with a father's protection and spiritual leading really made this book a winner.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mystery authors often give so many clues indicating who the perpetrator is, or not enough clues pointing to other possibilities, that I am able to figure it out very early. Not Camy Tang!! She has written a plausible story with a well-hidden murderer. The only drawback is that some of her clues leading the wrong direction were never explained, but it is a series, so perhaps they factor in the next installment. Camy Tang's writing style is delightful, and I will definitely be reading more of her books. If you like mysteries with just a touch of romance, you'll love this one.

[Ileana Tsai · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a great and easy read. This is the first book from Camy Tang that I have been able to read. This book had me reading and reading until I finish it since I just needed to know who really was behind the killings. I also really enjoyed the sweet love story between Devon and Naomi. I highly recommend this book.

[Chas. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good mystery. And of course, Tang's predilection for humorous, poignant love stories.

[Marnie Cushing · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an easy read. I've read some of her other books and hope to read more. I like her use of Christian values woven within the story.

[Bettyjoy Engelbrecht]

If I knew how to delete I would because I did not read this Deadly Intent I am busy reading la Platte's Deadly Intent. This was added in error.

[Robynjolo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good idea but not written in a way that was captivating. The writing didn't seem fully developed to me.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This bogged down in the middle a bit for me but bang up good ending! Thanks Camy.

[Camy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too many characters

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been meaning to read this for so many years and a quite shocked with myself for putting off a great read for so long. It’s a mystery mostly set in a spa in California and there are a number of credible suspects for the MCs to sort through before the perp manages to frame them for murder and get away with the crimes.

Can’t wait for the next in the series.

[Jordynn Fraser · Rating 4 out of 5]

The beginning of the book was a little slow. However the ending was surprising and very good!