Deceptions Can Be Murder

Charlie Parker #23

by Connie Shelton

Charlie and Drake attend a gala event for the helicopter industry, where an old friend of Drake’s presents Charlie with a mystery to solve. One of his company vehicles has gone missing. Charlie is puzzled as to why he didn’t report it to the police or his insurance company, but must admit the fat retainer he pays and the obvious success of his business overrides her initial concerns.

When the van is found in an empty field near the small town of Santa Rosa, New Mexico, it would seem the case is closed. But rather than solving the mystery, the questions only become more complex. The leads take Charlie across the state, and she has no way of knowing that several lives will hang in the balance before she figures out this one.


Praise for this USA Today bestselling

“Charlie is just what readers want.” –Booklist

“Connie Shelton gets better with every book she writes.” –The Midwest Book Review

“A page turner!” - K. Coonce, 5 star review (for Escapes Can Be Murder)

“I always love Charlie’s escapades. She keeps me glued to the story, unable to put it down. Love the mixture of humor and suspense. Can’t wait for the next adventure!” – Meg, 5 stars online review

“Memorable details … and an edgy, paranoid atmosphere.” –Booklist

“… superbly crafted story …” – Gothic Journal

“Each book in the series just keeps getting better and better.” – Vine Voice reviewer

“Charlie is a fabulous amateur sleuth!” – Midwest Book Review

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 9, 2025

About the author

My love of books started with weekly trips to the library as a child and from the moment I learned to read I can't remember a time that I didn't have at least one book going. For the past 25 years, that list has grown to include what I'm reading and what I'm writing at any given time.

I began writing my Charlie Parker series when my husband and I lived on Kauai, then continued them in my home state of New Mexico. Charlie lives in Albuquerque and manages to travel to a variety of locations, wherever her investigation business and her husband's helicopter business take them. My second series featuring Samantha Sweet, the 50-ish woman who breaks into houses for a living, is set in Taos, New Mexico.

In addition to reading and writing, I've traveled quite a lot, taught writing courses, and been a speaker at a whole lot of mystery conventions and writing conferences. In my spare time I also love to paint, draw, cook and spend time at the beach.

Series:
* Charlie Parker Mystery

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved reading this very fast paced book set in New Mexico.
On the run, out of money, out of luck, broke down vehicles, hunger, fear and regrets have a young couple regretting their decision to strike out on their own.
Lies, drugs, money, greed and murder have an elite helicopter friend from Drakes past in this episode.
Charlie can detect deceit in the eyes of the man asking for her help.
Justice must prevail in Charlie’s eyes.

[Norma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Connie Shelton never disappoints!