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Shadows of Deception
Another gripping thriller from NY Times and USA Today Bestselling author M A Comley author of the award-winning Justice series who has sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
The truth hides in the darkest places.
When two prominent members of the Hereford community are found murdered in chillingly distinct ways, DI Sara Ramsey and DS Carla Jameson are thrust into a case as twisted as it is deadly. As the body count rises, the killer’s cryptic messages point to a hidden truth buried in the past, a truth someone will do anything to avenge.
With time running out, Sara and her team must navigate a web of lies and betrayal, where every clue brings them closer to a dangerous enemy. But in a town where no one is who they seem, exposing the truth could cost them everything.
Other books in this series No Right To Kill (An Amazon top 80 novel)
Killer Blow
The Dead Can't Speak
Deluded
The Murder Pact
Twisted Revenge
The Lies She Told
For the Love of...
Run For Your Life
Cold Mercy
Sign of Evil
Indefensible
Locked Away
I Can See You!
The Kill List
Crossing The Line
Time To Kill
Deadly Passion
Son of the Dead
Evil Intent
The Games People Play
Revenge Streak
Seeking Retribution
Gone... But Where?
Last Man Standing
Vanished
Shadows of Deception
The truth hides in the darkest places.
When two prominent members of the Hereford community are found murdered in chillingly distinct ways, DI Sara Ramsey and DS Carla Jameson are thrust into a case as twisted as it is deadly. As the body count rises, the killer’s cryptic messages point to a hidden truth buried in the past, a truth someone will do anything to avenge.
With time running out, Sara and her team must navigate a web of lies and betrayal, where every clue brings them closer to a dangerous enemy. But in a town where no one is who they seem, exposing the truth could cost them everything.
Other books in this series No Right To Kill (An Amazon top 80 novel)
Killer Blow
The Dead Can't Speak
Deluded
The Murder Pact
Twisted Revenge
The Lies She Told
For the Love of...
Run For Your Life
Cold Mercy
Sign of Evil
Indefensible
Locked Away
I Can See You!
The Kill List
Crossing The Line
Time To Kill
Deadly Passion
Son of the Dead
Evil Intent
The Games People Play
Revenge Streak
Seeking Retribution
Gone... But Where?
Last Man Standing
Vanished
Shadows of Deception
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2025
98 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Comley
176 books814 followersNew York Times, USA Today, Amazon Top 20 bestselling author, iBooks top 5 bestselling and #2 bestselling author on Barnes and Noble. Over one million copies sold world wide. I am a British author who moved to France in 2002, and that's when I turned my hobby into a career.
When I'm not writing crime novels I'm either reading them or going on long walks with my rescue Labrador, Dex.
I hope you enjoy reading my books, especially the Justice series, Cruel Justice, Impeding Justice, Final Justice, Foul Justice, Guaranteed Justice, Ultimate Justice, Virtual Justice, Hostile Justice, Tortured Justice, Rough Justice, Dubious Justice, Calculated Justice, Twisted Justice, Prime Justice. There are several novellas and short stories in the series too.
My other successful series are: The DI Sally Parker thriller series, which includes WRONG PLACE, NO HIDING PLACE and COLD CASE
The Hero series, TORN APART, END RESULT, IN PLAIN SIGHT and DOUBLE JEOPARDY(published by Bloodhound Books)
I have three books in the Intention series, Sole Intention, Grave Intention and Devious Intention.
I've also written a couple of standalone novels - EVIL IN DISGUISE and FOREVER WATCHING YOU.
As well as co-authoring The Caller with Tara Lyons.
And Clever Deception, Tragic Deception and Sinful Deception co-authored by fellow NY Times bestselling author Linda S Prather.
If you'd like to keep up to date with new releases you can find me on Facebook by following this link http://smarturl.it/sps7jh or sign up for my newsletter http://www.hyperurl.co/su1xnt
If you fancy a lighter read, why not try one of my romances: A Time to Heal, and A Time for Change--Based on a TRUE story. I also have a selection of short stories and novelettes available which I know you'll enjoy.
You can find out more about me at the following blogs.
http://melcomley.blogspot.com
http://melcomleyromances.blogspot.com
When I'm not writing crime novels I'm either reading them or going on long walks with my rescue Labrador, Dex.
I hope you enjoy reading my books, especially the Justice series, Cruel Justice, Impeding Justice, Final Justice, Foul Justice, Guaranteed Justice, Ultimate Justice, Virtual Justice, Hostile Justice, Tortured Justice, Rough Justice, Dubious Justice, Calculated Justice, Twisted Justice, Prime Justice. There are several novellas and short stories in the series too.
My other successful series are: The DI Sally Parker thriller series, which includes WRONG PLACE, NO HIDING PLACE and COLD CASE
The Hero series, TORN APART, END RESULT, IN PLAIN SIGHT and DOUBLE JEOPARDY(published by Bloodhound Books)
I have three books in the Intention series, Sole Intention, Grave Intention and Devious Intention.
I've also written a couple of standalone novels - EVIL IN DISGUISE and FOREVER WATCHING YOU.
As well as co-authoring The Caller with Tara Lyons.
And Clever Deception, Tragic Deception and Sinful Deception co-authored by fellow NY Times bestselling author Linda S Prather.
If you'd like to keep up to date with new releases you can find me on Facebook by following this link http://smarturl.it/sps7jh or sign up for my newsletter http://www.hyperurl.co/su1xnt
If you fancy a lighter read, why not try one of my romances: A Time to Heal, and A Time for Change--Based on a TRUE story. I also have a selection of short stories and novelettes available which I know you'll enjoy.
You can find out more about me at the following blogs.
http://melcomley.blogspot.com
http://melcomleyromances.blogspot.com
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 16, 2025
Well... here we are. Book 27 and still as fresh as book1! Which you will know cos you have also been with the series since then and read in order, haven't you ?!
So... in this book Sara and Carla have their work cut out for them once again when they are called to the scene of the rather brutal murder of a solicitor. Killed at his desk with a note left. They have only just started their investigations when another man is killed and, once the eventually manage to link the two, it becomes a race against time to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Not only do they have that to contend with, Sara and her team are still coming to terms with the betrayal which was uncovered in the previous book. As well as learning to work with the replacement. Carla is frustrated with her ongoing wedding plans and, if that wasn't enough, her father appears to be caught up in the case. Meanwhile, Sara also finds help from a very unlikely source.
Phew... it's all going on in this book. Has me exhausted just thinking about it again! And, when all was finally revealed, it centred around a topic that is actually quite prevalent today, but spoilers prevent me from expanding on this. Suffice to say, it gets my goat too on occasion as we are currently seeing similar consequences where I live. So it was hard not to get emotionally involved in this one.
As well as the cracking story everything I need is also front and centre. Characters are brilliant, the usual suspects all continue to develop and new ones - series and episode - all play their parts well. Pacing matches narrative all the way through and, as there is absolutely no superfluous waffle or padding, it all gets on with itself very well indeed. Culminating in a wholly satisfying ending.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already well impressive series and indeed back catalogue. Roll on next time.
So... in this book Sara and Carla have their work cut out for them once again when they are called to the scene of the rather brutal murder of a solicitor. Killed at his desk with a note left. They have only just started their investigations when another man is killed and, once the eventually manage to link the two, it becomes a race against time to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Not only do they have that to contend with, Sara and her team are still coming to terms with the betrayal which was uncovered in the previous book. As well as learning to work with the replacement. Carla is frustrated with her ongoing wedding plans and, if that wasn't enough, her father appears to be caught up in the case. Meanwhile, Sara also finds help from a very unlikely source.
Phew... it's all going on in this book. Has me exhausted just thinking about it again! And, when all was finally revealed, it centred around a topic that is actually quite prevalent today, but spoilers prevent me from expanding on this. Suffice to say, it gets my goat too on occasion as we are currently seeing similar consequences where I live. So it was hard not to get emotionally involved in this one.
As well as the cracking story everything I need is also front and centre. Characters are brilliant, the usual suspects all continue to develop and new ones - series and episode - all play their parts well. Pacing matches narrative all the way through and, as there is absolutely no superfluous waffle or padding, it all gets on with itself very well indeed. Culminating in a wholly satisfying ending.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already well impressive series and indeed back catalogue. Roll on next time.
March 27, 2025
A case that runs a bit close to home for Sara and her team in this newest edition in the series. It adds to the tension of what is already a gripping storyline as the body count rises. We have no idea who the killer is yet they seem to be seeking revenge against their victims. Of course it is left to the team to work out the who and why which leads to some shocking revelations.
Along with the case, Sara and her colleagues are still coming to terms with what happened in the previous book. Not only that, but there is a new boss to contend with of which there are understandably some trust issues to iron out. I like the background characters of Jeff and Mary who I would love to see a bit more of as even though their parts in the story are small, they manage to stand out in their own right.
Shadows of Deception tackles a few different topics which all make for an enthralling read. Emotions are high within the team and I think readers would be best to have read the previous book in the series to fully understand and enjoy this one. It had me go through an array of emotions of which some parts were very chilling indeed. The pacing was great with never a lull with so much going on that as usual, I flew through it and am yet again eager for the next one. A highly addictive crime series!
Along with the case, Sara and her colleagues are still coming to terms with what happened in the previous book. Not only that, but there is a new boss to contend with of which there are understandably some trust issues to iron out. I like the background characters of Jeff and Mary who I would love to see a bit more of as even though their parts in the story are small, they manage to stand out in their own right.
Shadows of Deception tackles a few different topics which all make for an enthralling read. Emotions are high within the team and I think readers would be best to have read the previous book in the series to fully understand and enjoy this one. It had me go through an array of emotions of which some parts were very chilling indeed. The pacing was great with never a lull with so much going on that as usual, I flew through it and am yet again eager for the next one. A highly addictive crime series!
April 17, 2025
Another truly gripping case for Sara, Carla and the team. Highly Recommended.
After Sara’s boss, Carol Price, was arrested and removed from her position, Sara is naturally nervous about meeting her new boss.
Likewise, Sara’s partner, Carla, is equally stressed when she pulls up next to Sara in the car-park, but for completely different reasons - wedding plans. Both are preoccupied with their own concerns.
Whilst Sara is meeting her new boss, a call comes in about a murder and the two leave the office to meet the pathologist at the scene. And so their day begins.
When the past seeps into the present a killer, or killers, decide it’s time to seek revenge for the injustices they feel they and their families have endured at the hands of the unscrupulous members of society.
And so, another challenging case begins for the two colleagues and friends.
Excellent read with so much going on. Twists and turns, surprises and shocks kept me engrossed.
Every book in this series is gripping.
After Sara’s boss, Carol Price, was arrested and removed from her position, Sara is naturally nervous about meeting her new boss.
Likewise, Sara’s partner, Carla, is equally stressed when she pulls up next to Sara in the car-park, but for completely different reasons - wedding plans. Both are preoccupied with their own concerns.
Whilst Sara is meeting her new boss, a call comes in about a murder and the two leave the office to meet the pathologist at the scene. And so their day begins.
When the past seeps into the present a killer, or killers, decide it’s time to seek revenge for the injustices they feel they and their families have endured at the hands of the unscrupulous members of society.
And so, another challenging case begins for the two colleagues and friends.
Excellent read with so much going on. Twists and turns, surprises and shocks kept me engrossed.
Every book in this series is gripping.
May 3, 2025
Another totally unputdownable book from this fabulous author.
And another fresh feeling story in this long running series. It is always great to join DI Sara Ramsey on a new case, and this time we also see her getting to know a new DCI, and Carla's dad is having health issues too.
Add in a case that may have a connection to one of the team, and that they are positive there is a serial killer at play, despite a variety of killing methods, which seemed fairly inventive.
It's definitely a tricky case and my only prediction was thankfully totally off the mark. I had no idea who the murderer was, and I was willing Sara and her team on to work it out, despite the lack of evidence.
This was totally gripping and was really quick to read and is another great instalment in this fabulous series.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And another fresh feeling story in this long running series. It is always great to join DI Sara Ramsey on a new case, and this time we also see her getting to know a new DCI, and Carla's dad is having health issues too.
Add in a case that may have a connection to one of the team, and that they are positive there is a serial killer at play, despite a variety of killing methods, which seemed fairly inventive.
It's definitely a tricky case and my only prediction was thankfully totally off the mark. I had no idea who the murderer was, and I was willing Sara and her team on to work it out, despite the lack of evidence.
This was totally gripping and was really quick to read and is another great instalment in this fabulous series.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 21, 2025
Local solicitor, Richard, has an evening meeting with a client called Mr Bullman. The following day, he is found murdered alongside a strange message carved into his desk.
When local teacher, Alan Fletcher is found close to death and a note left on him, Sara and Carla realise they are connected, but no idea why.
With the worry of a serial killer on their hands, the team are stumped, and need a break to solve the case.
With Carla worrying following a family health scare, she’s got enough on her plate with all the stress from her wedding plans. With Sara beside her, she helps keep her calm and focus on the job.
This was a fast paced and dark story. A tale of revenge, which goes to show just how long some people will wait.
It was also a sad story, and makes you realise how affected people are by choices made, no matter how long ago. For some people, they never recover.
When local teacher, Alan Fletcher is found close to death and a note left on him, Sara and Carla realise they are connected, but no idea why.
With the worry of a serial killer on their hands, the team are stumped, and need a break to solve the case.
With Carla worrying following a family health scare, she’s got enough on her plate with all the stress from her wedding plans. With Sara beside her, she helps keep her calm and focus on the job.
This was a fast paced and dark story. A tale of revenge, which goes to show just how long some people will wait.
It was also a sad story, and makes you realise how affected people are by choices made, no matter how long ago. For some people, they never recover.
April 17, 2025
Book 27 in the DI Sara Ramsey series and it doesn’t disappoint.
Whilst Sara and Carla have turmoil in their personal lives they also have a serial killer to catch.
A respected solicitor is found murdered in his office along with a cryptic note. It’s not long before another victim is found and it becomes increasingly urgent to find the killer. Add into the pot that this becomes really personal for Carla! Can they identify a link between victims and ultimately the perpetrator.
Meanwhile after the huge betrayal by their senior manager Price the team have a new boss and have to learn to trust again. Can’t wait to see how that pans out.
Another fab read, stayed up far too late finishing this one.
Whilst Sara and Carla have turmoil in their personal lives they also have a serial killer to catch.
A respected solicitor is found murdered in his office along with a cryptic note. It’s not long before another victim is found and it becomes increasingly urgent to find the killer. Add into the pot that this becomes really personal for Carla! Can they identify a link between victims and ultimately the perpetrator.
Meanwhile after the huge betrayal by their senior manager Price the team have a new boss and have to learn to trust again. Can’t wait to see how that pans out.
Another fab read, stayed up far too late finishing this one.
April 16, 2025
What a brilliant & exciting book.
DI Sara Ramsey & DS Jameson have their work cut out for them with a new DCI to contend with & a new case where there is a plethora of bodies stacking up.
In the middle of all this , Carla’s father is taken into hospital with a suspected heart attack over work affairs that happened years ago. Can she keep her mind on the job with what’s happening in her family ?
Both girls have a lot to handle & that’s why they make a great team. This was a book that had me guessing from beginning to end.
DI Sara Ramsey & DS Jameson have their work cut out for them with a new DCI to contend with & a new case where there is a plethora of bodies stacking up.
In the middle of all this , Carla’s father is taken into hospital with a suspected heart attack over work affairs that happened years ago. Can she keep her mind on the job with what’s happening in her family ?
Both girls have a lot to handle & that’s why they make a great team. This was a book that had me guessing from beginning to end.
March 25, 2025
Great reading & no spoilers but this book made me think of all the things I’ve seen in my life that could be the same as this book. It’s good to see the characters going from strength to strength over this series. I don’t know how the author keeps coming up with these stories but I love them. They make you think, feel, wonder & cry sometimes but that’s what I love about them.
March 31, 2025
Ooh this case hits close to the team this time.
Bodies turn up and notes adding to the confusion and intrigue.
Personally they have a lot going on as well.
Can they juggle both sides? Of course they can.
Great partners and a great team, not forgetting the new boss after the last books reveal.
Excellent series, great read, I look forward to these so much.
Bodies turn up and notes adding to the confusion and intrigue.
Personally they have a lot going on as well.
Can they juggle both sides? Of course they can.
Great partners and a great team, not forgetting the new boss after the last books reveal.
Excellent series, great read, I look forward to these so much.
April 30, 2025
Some major mistakes
Overall, the books are quite good....except for some major mistakes.
Carla seems to get married twice, and Will takes one for the team and leaves, only to reappear further in the series.
Overall, the books are quite good....except for some major mistakes.
Carla seems to get married twice, and Will takes one for the team and leaves, only to reappear further in the series.
April 16, 2025
M. A. Comley is a hardworking writer and never fails to keep her readers happy. This book deals with the past meeting the present. Thank you for another great read!
April 17, 2025
Outstanding
Oh wow I started it just after midnight then carried on today it's a great story worth 5 STARS fantastic read .
Oh wow I started it just after midnight then carried on today it's a great story worth 5 STARS fantastic read .
October 9, 2025
ooh very good story n characters again. 😋💝📚
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews