The Perfect Deception

Shadows and Strings #2

by K.B. Winters

She’s his darkest obsession—and his greatest danger.

Control has always been my greatest strength—the key to my empire, the shield that silences my enemies, and the force that hides my darkness. And Detective Francesca DeMarco threatens to shatter my carefully crafted world.
With every day that passes, she’s inching closer to uncovering the truth—about the murders...and about me.
When she finds an old photograph, she thinks she’s uncovered my darkest secret.
She’s wrong, but the fear in her eyes tells me she’s afraid I’ll be next. And it’s unraveling everything I’ve worked so hard to protect.
She’s falling deeper, getting closer, and if she keeps digging, she’ll uncover the truth—about me, about who I am.
And when she does, I’ll either be her salvation or her destruction.

Continue the dangerous journey of love and secrets in The Perfect Deception, book two of the Shadows and Strings trilogy.
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234 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 10, 2024

Reviews

[Shelley C · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Deception😳

Wow, this is the second book in the Shadows and Strings Trilogy and let’s just say every clue is perfectly done and manipulated and everything is not as it seems and deceptively twisty❣️A not to be missed addition of Frankie as she follows and pursues all leads to bring a killer to justice. But soon realises, she might have taken on more than she can chew…all while living with her charming billionaire boyfriend🤔

I can’t wait for the conclusion to Frankie and Damien…things are definitely heating up🔥 I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and voluntarily leave my honest review.

[IR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can’t trust a man named Damien

[Claudia |✨Cushin Violeta's Bookish Realm✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd definitely been waiting for this one after that secret clue revealed at the end of the previous book.

Before going ahead, please know that this is book 2 in this trilogy and if you haven't read the previous book, then this review might unknowingly reveal something.

In this second installment of this thriller trilogy, we get more of Damien and Frankie getting so into each other, that things are getting all the more tangled up.

Damien always had a set path and now all his plans are going well. What he didn't anticipate was the feelings he feels for Frankie nor did he expect her mastermind to reach so close to the actual truth.

The cat and mouse game continues in this one too and as new clues come to light, Detective Francesca Demarco and her partner slash family, Jay, do everything in their power to figure out who's behind it all.

I loved the 𝗌𝖾𝗑𝗒 times and full of sweet romance moments we get with Damien and Frankie.
It seems that Damien has upped his game and he seems to also get closer to his victory each day yet there are also unprecedented hurdles thrown in his way.

Oohhh... This one was much more hotter and Damien is also muddling my brain as to whose side should I take, as he's been this perfect gentleman with Frankie and winning hearts.

And then there's that ending... Can't wait to grab the finale in this trilogy. Loved this one.❤️❤️

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frankie is an awesome cop, always paying attention to the smallest details while working to solve a case. But, I swear, with the serial killer she's trying to solve, her brain cells have dissipated! She thinks she's getting closer to solving it, but then she's not. She may be distracted with her fling with Damien. He's perfect, caring and great in the sack. But, he's oh so much more than that!

Damien's little plan for Frankie is falling into place. What he didn't count on was the connection and feelings he has for her. He has a mission, and all feelings aside he will continue with his goal.

Book 2 in the Shadows and Strings series, left me just as engrossed and frustrated as the first story!! I can't wait to see how this series ends! My frustration level with Frankie has almost reached its peak! I want to slap some sense into her! I'm looking forward to reading book 3!

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in this series, and continues the storyline. Damien is still deeply in control of all things Frankie, and his obsession is quite intense. Their steamy connection on top of the suspenseful events kept these pages flipping! The dangerous secrets swirl around these two, and Frankie is getting closer to uncovering secrets - secrets that Damien doesn't want found.

It's hard to pull yourself from these characters, so I suggest planning your reading time. This author is masterful at spinning tales that keep me engaged and addicted, through the last pages.
I recommend her works.

I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy of this book (thank you) and happily leave my review.

[Dawnmarie Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in the Shadows and Strings series featuring the continuation of Damien and Frankie's intense riveting tale of obsession full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. You can't turn the pages fast enough to see what's going to happen next in this steamy suspenseful story. As the dangerous secrets surround Damien and Frankie, secrets that Damien does not want discovered and that Frankie is getting closer to discovering everyday. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this intense, intriguing, steamy, suspenseful tale of obsession to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Denisa Claudia Raicu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Volumul doi continua la fel de frustrant.
Francesca descoperă legătura criminalul cu Hope House, găsește un martor care are niște poze, își pune prea multe întrebări la care nu primește răspuns.
Damien este la fel de atent cu ea, dar își da seama ca greșește pe celalalta parte, începe sa realizeze ca legătura cu Hope House poate sa fie legătura care îl da de gol.

Francesca simte ca Damien este în pericol și nu înțelege de ce el neagă aparitia într-o anumita poza.
S-a citit rapid, a fost intensa. Dar scurta.
Si efectiv finalul m-a lăsat în pom, pomul fiind în aer.
Am citit undeva ca ar fi o trilogie, dar nu am găsit decât aceste 2 volume.
Si cum aflu eu acum ce se întâmplă mai departe?

[lf · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues and still keeps you glued to your seat

The Perfect Deception is the second book in the Shadows and Strings series. This book is a continuation in the story detective Frankie DeMarco as she and her partner are trying to find a serial killer. The story picks up from the ending of the first book, The Darkness Within, and it does end on another cliffhanger to be picked up in the final book of the series. I am so enjoying this well written story and the characters, along with the various emotions the author is able to draw out. I can't wait to read the last book to know what happens at the end.

[Grinning Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things heat up between Frankie and Damien as his obsession with and control over her grow. Frankie gets closer to finding the killer and unknowingly closer to the killer.
This is a departure from Winters’ recent work and I’m in two minds about it. This is suspenseful. But I’m more of a fan of the romance that I expect from this author. I understand the need for change, but I can’t say that I’m glad for it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of the series. Not a standalone. Damien loves that all Frankie thinks about is him, even though she doesn’t know it. Between their relationship and the case, he is her life. He thinks of her as part of his game, but also cares about and is drawn to her. Frankie is getting more information on the case, but not putting it together correctly. Damien finally makes some missteps and his past really is coming back to bite him. I love seeing both of their thoughts. Cliffhanger ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LeQuetia Hollis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The level of suspense and intensity have definitely were high in this second installment of the series. Frankie is madly in love and is unfortunately experiencing clouded judgement in regards to her murder case. Jay is falling in love and slipping in his overall gameplay but not enough to get off track with his plans for revenge. The latest developments have helped get Frankie somewhat back on track although her focus will prove to be panic driven and scattered. Looking forward to reading the final installment to see how all this wraps up although I will hate to see this end so soon.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frankie (Francesca) is getting closer to the truth of the killer, she is tracking, but still he is eluding her. Damien is obsessed with Frankie, although he hides his darker side from her, will she end up asking him the hard questions? I loved this addition to Frankie and Damien's story, and it's danger, suspense, sizzle and deception. I'm looking forward to what happens next.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frankie and Damien are back in The Perfect Deception book two of the Shadows and Strings trilogy. You should read book one The Darkness Within before starting this book so you get the full story. This is a murder mystery with well developed characters, secrets, intrigue, danger, suspense, steam, and page turning twists. The Perfect Deception ends in a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read the final book in this trilogy to see how everything ends. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damien and Frankies story continues he's hiding his true self, deceiving Frankie, smoothing his way into her life controlling her but when tracks start to show, where will it leave them? Well written steamy suspense, desires drama and more I can't wait for book3!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kim Hammork · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been a fan of this author for years, this is completely different than anything she’s ever written. The more I read, the better it gets. I still hate cliffhangers, but again, she let us know in advance so I can’t hold that against her. One more to go.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Megan Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well more deception for Frankie and I'm so curious how it will play out. She's falling hard for Damien and one photigraph has him scrambling to cover tracts and her worrying for the wrong reason. Can't wait to see how the rest unfolds in this story and Frankie falls deeper for a deceptive man...... this is my honest review for a book I volunteered to read

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is second book in trilogy and can’t wait for book three.
This book is filled with passion, intrigue and love hate relationship .
Does he has double personality? Could so violent person still be a hero?
Intriguing storyline.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damien and Frankie's story continues as he works his way into her life as he dominates her. As cracks begin to appear will Damien be able to keep his control over Frankie to maneuver as he pleases.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, just wow! This story is intense, full of deception, and so many lies. The drama, unknown who is behind the murders, and trusting someone who doesn't deserve it. What will the truth lead too? A horrible mistake, misunderstanding of whatever has been driving the killer.

[Ann Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damien is still controlling Frankie and hiding his true self as she gets closer to uncovering the truth. Steamy and suspenseful as secrets get nearer to be discovered. Looking forward to the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved book two and just wow, damien's still on his revenge quest and detective Frankie is bound and determined to bring down the killer but what she doesn't know is how close she is to him. What will happen in the final book between killer/lover and cop?

[Sammye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the amazing Shadows and Strings series. It’s the continuation of Damien and Frankie’s intense story. There are so many secrets, lies, betrayal and so much deception. The suspense, drama and steam kept me spellbound. Can’t wait for the conclusion.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damien isn't to be trusted but Francesca hasn't figured this out yet. She is totally on the wrong path here. Her being a police officer you would think her guard would be higher than it is. I sure hope she figures this out before its to late.

[Sharon Noble · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my!

Frankie & Damian are getting close but Frankie doesn't know the killer is Damian. Frankie has also told Damian that she loves him & he just went quiet! Will Frankie be able to solve the murders & find the murderer before they come for her!

[S I · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Perfect Deception by KB Winters
Oh the hidden mysteries that the detective will find. Will this break her or bring them closer. I’m so excited to see how this goes. Fantastic work by this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Bolay · Rating 5 out of 5]

💓💖💓 Damien and Frankie 💓💖💓 A continuation of book 1 of the Shadows and Strings series. KB Winters dors a wonderful job telling this story of intrigue!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fast paced from beginning to end, Frankie is getting in deeper with Damien and she still has no idea who he is. But the clues are adding up. Could not put down and read in one afternoon. Can't wait for the final book to see how this story unfolds in the end

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I waited what seems like forever for book two of this trilogy and it was well worth the wait. There are so many secrets being hidden and betrayal committed that it makes the storyline so much more addictive. Once again there is a cliffhanger, right when it looks like stuff is about the hit the fan!! I need the next part in this now!.

[Madeleine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damien + Frankie's story was so good and such an attention keeper. Drama, secrets, suspense, spice and do much more.

[Nineette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damien and Frankie

He believes he has Frankie under control, but is he really the one in control? Well worth it is steamy and suspenseful.