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In Deadly Company
A year after the blowout birthday celebration she organized accidentally ended in the death of her nightmare, one-percenter boss, Xander Chambers, Nicole Underwood thought she was setting the public record straight by agreeing to consult on a feature film based on her story. But on the set in LA, she watches in frustration as her experiences are persistently sidelined by inappropriate casting and frequent, bizarre script changes.
Nicole is haunted by the events of that fateful house party and visions of her now deceased boss. Xander had been unfit to lead the company his mother—famed entrepreneur Bridget Chambers—had founded and built to Fortune 500 status until her untimely death in a car accident several months prior. After being Bridget’s favorite assistant, Nicole had honored her mentor by staying on to keep Xander organized and on task despite his relentless partying. When he wanted her to plan his wild bash, Nicole saw a chance to probe the people closest to the Chambers family and learn if Bridget’s crash was truly a simple tragedy. But Nicole, who just wanted to be the best assistant possible, could not have foreseen the terrible consequences of her actions.
Nicole is haunted by the events of that fateful house party and visions of her now deceased boss. Xander had been unfit to lead the company his mother—famed entrepreneur Bridget Chambers—had founded and built to Fortune 500 status until her untimely death in a car accident several months prior. After being Bridget’s favorite assistant, Nicole had honored her mentor by staying on to keep Xander organized and on task despite his relentless partying. When he wanted her to plan his wild bash, Nicole saw a chance to probe the people closest to the Chambers family and learn if Bridget’s crash was truly a simple tragedy. But Nicole, who just wanted to be the best assistant possible, could not have foreseen the terrible consequences of her actions.
328 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2025
32 people are currently reading
5814 people want to read
About the author
L.S. Stratton
4 books480 followersL.S. Stratton is an NAACP Image Award-nominated author and former crime newspaper reporter who has written more than a dozen books under different pen names in just about every genre from thrillers to romance to historical fiction. She currently lives in Maryland with her husband, their daughter, and their tuxedo cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
June 9, 2025
I had a great time !
It's a well executed and fast paced thriller. I liked the main character a lot and the idea of having the her going back to the events because of a movie adaptation, and i also really liked her way to interact with the other characters.
The plot kept my interest at all times, and I feel like this book can appeal to a lot of people: there is is a bit of everything without trying too hard.
Thank you Union Square & Co. for this ARC!
It's a well executed and fast paced thriller. I liked the main character a lot and the idea of having the her going back to the events because of a movie adaptation, and i also really liked her way to interact with the other characters.
The plot kept my interest at all times, and I feel like this book can appeal to a lot of people: there is is a bit of everything without trying too hard.
Thank you Union Square & Co. for this ARC!
August 30, 2025
3.5!
Im pretty sure this is my first whodunit and I really enjoyed it! It was fun trying to pick out what was a possible clue and what was a red herring. I thought I had it figured out but I was so wrong. Perfect book to wrap up my summer reading. I enjoyed the commentary on workplace toxicity.
Im pretty sure this is my first whodunit and I really enjoyed it! It was fun trying to pick out what was a possible clue and what was a red herring. I thought I had it figured out but I was so wrong. Perfect book to wrap up my summer reading. I enjoyed the commentary on workplace toxicity.
September 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This was an entertaining read, and I honestly didn’t know what to expect going in. It turned out to be a solid whodunit. I had my suspicions early on about who the main villain was (and I was right), but there were plenty of twists I didn’t see coming, which kept things interesting.
This was my first book by this author, and while I enjoyed it, I have a feeling there are others in her catalog that I’ll love even more. I definitely plan to read more from her.
Thank you to Union Square & Co, L.S. Stratton, and NetGalley for the E-arc.
This was an entertaining read, and I honestly didn’t know what to expect going in. It turned out to be a solid whodunit. I had my suspicions early on about who the main villain was (and I was right), but there were plenty of twists I didn’t see coming, which kept things interesting.
This was my first book by this author, and while I enjoyed it, I have a feeling there are others in her catalog that I’ll love even more. I definitely plan to read more from her.
Thank you to Union Square & Co, L.S. Stratton, and NetGalley for the E-arc.
January 15, 2026
This was a decent mystery novel with a small romantic subplot. Even though it felt a little slow and boring the first few chapters, it does eventually pick up. Stratton lives little tid bits of clues and hints that Nicole had something to do with everything, so it was a little predictable but still enjoyable. I felt like some of the dialogue was heavily filtered out to be little to no cussing but it didn't really feel natural. Maybe because I'm grown but the amount of "trash," "idiot," "messed," "darn," and "dang" used in this book were insaneeeee. Especially "trash" like it was in damn near every chapter 😭 I also felt like some of the ending was really hard to believe. Like how tf did Jeremiah just become an actor and model after being in jail and literally being a con man for hire lol. I also found it hard to believe even though Daniel played a part in her "murder" and admitted everything to Nicole, how is he just able to walk around in Bridget's company lol like bruh WHAT. And even then Bridget being totally okay with 4 PEOPLE DYING was insane like they all had secrets to hide but they didn't deserve to DIE. It definitely was a quick and easy read, not too complicated or hard to comprehend but I could see a few things coming and didn't see others. I didn't totally like the whole thing with Jeremiah since I like my mysteries strictly mystery and not with a romantic subplot since I felt like it takes away good buildup and character development from the FMC, but hey some people may like it. Hoping to read her other novel as it might be better, but this wasn't my all time favorite mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2025
This book was fast paced, entertaining, and easy to eat up. I'm always intrigued by a murder-mystery, especially when the main events unfold in a central, remote setting. The twist was genuinely unexpected, though it took quite a bit of time to understand where it was going.
I didn't love the subplot about the movie based on the events. I understand that it served to wrap up the character arcs for both Nicole and Jeremiah, but the entirety of that subplot prior to the grand reveal feels like filler that only served to re-emphasize Nicole's emotional state following the deaths. That being said, I did enjoy the portion of it where Jeremiah is reintroduced, and they attend the premiere.
On that note, the love connection between Nicole and Jeremiah felt a bit forced and shallow. They had months to potentially rekindle following their one-night stand (if Nicole really wanted to), yet she showed no interest. Jeremiah also doesn't mention trying to track her back down, despite Nicole giving a fake name, after their connection. Then, the second they're back together the world seems to stop for both of them? There wasn't much explanation as to why they were so infatuated with each other all of a sudden, and why Jeremiah was willing to throw his body in front of a gunman to protect Nicole.
My final gripe is just on general believability. Faking your death in this scenario is CRAZY!! If the middleman that was being used to set up the killings was using email AND text, how is he not caught by the overinflated NYPD or the FBI?! Also, how does Nicole not realize that Bridget is a self-serving narcissist until AFTER everyone dies??? Nicole states that she cannot believe she ever looked up to Bridget, AFTER She very willingly takes part in blackmailing people to the point of literal psychosis, despite not knowing if the real perpetrator was even in attendance at Maple Grove. Only when these actions have real consequences is when she notices.
Daniel was a confusing character for me in this. He is featured so heavily in the first half of the book, just to entirely fall off a cliff and only get a passing mention in one of the final scenes. He proves to be an entitled rich guy, yet also the only person outside of Jeremiah to recognize Nicole's value outside of being an assistant when he offers her a VP position if she supports him and abandons Xander. Confusing.
I didn't love the subplot about the movie based on the events. I understand that it served to wrap up the character arcs for both Nicole and Jeremiah, but the entirety of that subplot prior to the grand reveal feels like filler that only served to re-emphasize Nicole's emotional state following the deaths. That being said, I did enjoy the portion of it where Jeremiah is reintroduced, and they attend the premiere.
On that note, the love connection between Nicole and Jeremiah felt a bit forced and shallow. They had months to potentially rekindle following their one-night stand (if Nicole really wanted to), yet she showed no interest. Jeremiah also doesn't mention trying to track her back down, despite Nicole giving a fake name, after their connection. Then, the second they're back together the world seems to stop for both of them? There wasn't much explanation as to why they were so infatuated with each other all of a sudden, and why Jeremiah was willing to throw his body in front of a gunman to protect Nicole.
My final gripe is just on general believability. Faking your death in this scenario is CRAZY!! If the middleman that was being used to set up the killings was using email AND text, how is he not caught by the overinflated NYPD or the FBI?! Also, how does Nicole not realize that Bridget is a self-serving narcissist until AFTER everyone dies??? Nicole states that she cannot believe she ever looked up to Bridget, AFTER She very willingly takes part in blackmailing people to the point of literal psychosis, despite not knowing if the real perpetrator was even in attendance at Maple Grove. Only when these actions have real consequences is when she notices.
Daniel was a confusing character for me in this. He is featured so heavily in the first half of the book, just to entirely fall off a cliff and only get a passing mention in one of the final scenes. He proves to be an entitled rich guy, yet also the only person outside of Jeremiah to recognize Nicole's value outside of being an assistant when he offers her a VP position if she supports him and abandons Xander. Confusing.
September 26, 2025
In Deadly Company - 3⭐️
I had high hopes cause everyone loves her debut,
not so perfect strangers.
This is a fast paced , whodunnit mystery. It is also my first read by this author, it wasn’t bad bad but it wasn’t wow either.
Her boss birthday party ended up into a murder incident and things go south pretty quickly. For someone who’s a personal assistant, the FMC was kinda naive/ like a pushover.
Some connections in this book were just forced and you have to suspend belief (like a lot) 😭
Maybe this is an entertaining thriller for beginners?
I had high hopes cause everyone loves her debut,
not so perfect strangers.
This is a fast paced , whodunnit mystery. It is also my first read by this author, it wasn’t bad bad but it wasn’t wow either.
Her boss birthday party ended up into a murder incident and things go south pretty quickly. For someone who’s a personal assistant, the FMC was kinda naive/ like a pushover.
Some connections in this book were just forced and you have to suspend belief (like a lot) 😭
Maybe this is an entertaining thriller for beginners?
Read
September 12, 2025I ended up setting this one aside around the 20% mark, but I think it’s really a case of timing for me. The writing definitely has an unpredictable, chaotic energy that could click perfectly with readers who enjoy stories that keep you guessing and throw you right into the action. I can see how this style would appeal to someone looking for something bold and unconventional, and I’d definitely encourage giving it a try if that’s your vibe.
Thank you, Hatchette, for my alc copy for an honest review!
Thank you, Hatchette, for my alc copy for an honest review!
March 8, 2026
3.5 ✨ Nicole should’ve done more after all that trauma she went through with them ppl.
December 18, 2025
Rating: 3.5 stars
In Deadly Company by L.S. Stratton was a fairly entertaining and fast-paced read. I got through it quickly, which says something, but I also don’t have a lot to say about it because it ultimately felt just… okay. Not bad, not super amazing, just average.
My biggest issue was the unnecessary romance subplot between Nicole and Jeremiah. You’re in the middle of a deadly mission, trapped in a mansion full of suspects, trying to figure out who the murderer is and somehow there’s time for sexual tension and hookups? It completely pulled me out of the story. The romance didn’t feel earned or believable; it came across more like a “we’re stuck together in this situation, we might as well make the best of it.” By the end, I didn’t buy how close they supposedly became or why Jeremiah was willing to risk himself for Nicole.
There was a part where Jeremiah called Nicole a “manipulative liar” it was one of the more satisfying moments in the book, but at the same time Nicole herself didn’t fully convince me as an extraordinary liar. There were moments where she was visibly nervous when others suspected her for something else, and I kept thinking, girl, people can definitely tell something is off. That undercut her credibility as a master manipulator.
I wanted to know what happened to Harper, the little girl, I know the grandmother didn’t want Nicole near her but I wanted to know it from the babysitter’s POV. Did the grandmother find out that the babysitter was also a spy??? How did she react?
The audiobook narrators deserves chef’s kisses for their immaculate delivery.
Overall, the story was fine and entertaining enough. The romance felt forced, the characters didn’t always live up to how they were described, and nothing really stood out as memorable. But I would still recommend it, if you are looking for something quick to devour.
In Deadly Company by L.S. Stratton was a fairly entertaining and fast-paced read. I got through it quickly, which says something, but I also don’t have a lot to say about it because it ultimately felt just… okay. Not bad, not super amazing, just average.
My biggest issue was the unnecessary romance subplot between Nicole and Jeremiah. You’re in the middle of a deadly mission, trapped in a mansion full of suspects, trying to figure out who the murderer is and somehow there’s time for sexual tension and hookups? It completely pulled me out of the story. The romance didn’t feel earned or believable; it came across more like a “we’re stuck together in this situation, we might as well make the best of it.” By the end, I didn’t buy how close they supposedly became or why Jeremiah was willing to risk himself for Nicole.
There was a part where Jeremiah called Nicole a “manipulative liar” it was one of the more satisfying moments in the book, but at the same time Nicole herself didn’t fully convince me as an extraordinary liar. There were moments where she was visibly nervous when others suspected her for something else, and I kept thinking, girl, people can definitely tell something is off. That undercut her credibility as a master manipulator.
I wanted to know what happened to Harper, the little girl, I know the grandmother didn’t want Nicole near her but I wanted to know it from the babysitter’s POV. Did the grandmother find out that the babysitter was also a spy??? How did she react?
The audiobook narrators deserves chef’s kisses for their immaculate delivery.
Overall, the story was fine and entertaining enough. The romance felt forced, the characters didn’t always live up to how they were described, and nothing really stood out as memorable. But I would still recommend it, if you are looking for something quick to devour.
June 11, 2025
In Deadly Company by L.S. Stratton is the kind of thriller that sneaks up on you in the best way. I didn’t expect too much from it at first, but I ended up loving, it’s a breezy read cause is perfectly short and easy to follow yet packed with suspense, dark humor, and unexpected twists.
The story unfolds from Nicole Underwood’s perspective—her boss’s birthday party goes from lavish celebration to a shocking murder scene. A year later, Nicole finds herself consulting on a film adaptation of that unforgettable night, all while trying to clear her name. Stratton’s choice to split the narrative between past and present works beautifully, giving us 99% of the story from Nicole’s point of view. This not only builds tension but also gives readers a deep dive into her character and how the events unfold.
The plot twists? Let’s just say my jaw literally hit the floor. I genuinely didn’t see some of them coming, and that’s exactly what I love in a thriller is moments that make you pause and think, “Wait, what?!”
It’s also fascinating how Stratton weaves the murder mystery with a movie adaptation angle, adding a layer of dark corporate satire that keeps things fresh.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, satisfying read with a killer twist (or two), In Deadly Company is a must. Highly recommend to fans of Knives Out, workplace dramas, and thrillers that don’t take themselves too seriously but still pack a punch.
The story unfolds from Nicole Underwood’s perspective—her boss’s birthday party goes from lavish celebration to a shocking murder scene. A year later, Nicole finds herself consulting on a film adaptation of that unforgettable night, all while trying to clear her name. Stratton’s choice to split the narrative between past and present works beautifully, giving us 99% of the story from Nicole’s point of view. This not only builds tension but also gives readers a deep dive into her character and how the events unfold.
The plot twists? Let’s just say my jaw literally hit the floor. I genuinely didn’t see some of them coming, and that’s exactly what I love in a thriller is moments that make you pause and think, “Wait, what?!”
It’s also fascinating how Stratton weaves the murder mystery with a movie adaptation angle, adding a layer of dark corporate satire that keeps things fresh.
If you’re in the mood for a quick, satisfying read with a killer twist (or two), In Deadly Company is a must. Highly recommend to fans of Knives Out, workplace dramas, and thrillers that don’t take themselves too seriously but still pack a punch.
September 25, 2025
About the story:
Nicole always wanted to be the best assistant, and in doing so she unknowingly began catering to the whims of Xander, who is now the CEO of a Fortune 500 company after the demise of his mother, who was also Nicole's ex-boss. But unlike her ex-boss, the current one has neither the skill to lead the company nor much interest in doing so. While Nicole is busy planning a grand birthday bash for Xander, something totally unplanned happens: he dies. A year later, this whole story is being made into a movie, and the process is excruciating to witness and be a part of.
What I felt:
The plot slowly builds as it interlaces the past and present of Nicole, but not in a way that I’d call a dual timeline. The name of the organisation did ring a bell from the past books. Talking about the characters, it’s easy to feel what the author wants you to feel. I found myself quickly angered by Xander’s casual attitude, and also shared the exasperation of Nicole's parents.
The storyline intensifies once the ghostly appearances start, and I particularly enjoyed that part the most. Nicole reminded me of Andrea from The Devil Wears Prada: the spark, the zeal, and so much more, though the conspiracy aspect was entirely different. There are definitely multiple twists in the story, so you do get your brain wiggles, but since the pacing was not very fast I wouldn’t categorize it as a thriller.
Was the death a murder or an accident? Only the end will tell, so do read!
Nicole always wanted to be the best assistant, and in doing so she unknowingly began catering to the whims of Xander, who is now the CEO of a Fortune 500 company after the demise of his mother, who was also Nicole's ex-boss. But unlike her ex-boss, the current one has neither the skill to lead the company nor much interest in doing so. While Nicole is busy planning a grand birthday bash for Xander, something totally unplanned happens: he dies. A year later, this whole story is being made into a movie, and the process is excruciating to witness and be a part of.
What I felt:
The plot slowly builds as it interlaces the past and present of Nicole, but not in a way that I’d call a dual timeline. The name of the organisation did ring a bell from the past books. Talking about the characters, it’s easy to feel what the author wants you to feel. I found myself quickly angered by Xander’s casual attitude, and also shared the exasperation of Nicole's parents.
The storyline intensifies once the ghostly appearances start, and I particularly enjoyed that part the most. Nicole reminded me of Andrea from The Devil Wears Prada: the spark, the zeal, and so much more, though the conspiracy aspect was entirely different. There are definitely multiple twists in the story, so you do get your brain wiggles, but since the pacing was not very fast I wouldn’t categorize it as a thriller.
Was the death a murder or an accident? Only the end will tell, so do read!
May 12, 2025
In Deadly Company is part murder mystery, part business thriller, and tells the story of Nicole Underwood, assistant to the insufferable CEO of Altruist Corporation, Xander Chambers. We learn that multiple murders occurred over the weekend of Xander’s big birthday bash at Maple Grove, and a movie is now being filmed, based on these events. Nicole works onset as a consultant in the present timeline, while the narrative of what occurred at Maple Grove is recounted in the past, from several different perspectives.
This book has a lot going on, and honestly, I’m here for it! I really enjoyed this, and I feel like there’s a lot for readers to latch onto. There’s humor, romance, action, lots of tension and suspense, and even a great twist - that I did not see coming one bit. The author mentioned being inspired by the show Succession. I’d imagine fans of that show would especially enjoy this as well, though I believe it does have something for everyone. Four stars!
This book has a lot going on, and honestly, I’m here for it! I really enjoyed this, and I feel like there’s a lot for readers to latch onto. There’s humor, romance, action, lots of tension and suspense, and even a great twist - that I did not see coming one bit. The author mentioned being inspired by the show Succession. I’d imagine fans of that show would especially enjoy this as well, though I believe it does have something for everyone. Four stars!
August 4, 2025
In Deadly Company
by: L.S. Stratton
Pub Date. Sept 2, 2025
In Deadly Company is a wildly entertaining, pulse-pounding thriller! This novel is a roller-coaster of a story with a unique blend of dark humor, mystery, and suspense.
Executive Assistant, Nicole Underwood’s life is thrown into chaos after her boss’s birthday celebration ends in murder. A year later she serves as a movie consultant on a film retelling that dreadful experience. The alternating timelines masterfully build suspense as the intertwined past and present slowly reveal their secrets.
L.S. Stratton’s command of suspense and dramatic tension is exceptional. If you’re a mystery lover who appreciates dark humor add In Deadly Company to your TBR immediately!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, L.S. Stratton, and Union Square & Co. for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
by: L.S. Stratton
Pub Date. Sept 2, 2025
In Deadly Company is a wildly entertaining, pulse-pounding thriller! This novel is a roller-coaster of a story with a unique blend of dark humor, mystery, and suspense.
Executive Assistant, Nicole Underwood’s life is thrown into chaos after her boss’s birthday celebration ends in murder. A year later she serves as a movie consultant on a film retelling that dreadful experience. The alternating timelines masterfully build suspense as the intertwined past and present slowly reveal their secrets.
L.S. Stratton’s command of suspense and dramatic tension is exceptional. If you’re a mystery lover who appreciates dark humor add In Deadly Company to your TBR immediately!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, L.S. Stratton, and Union Square & Co. for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2025
In Deadly Company has been sitting on my TBR long before its release, so finally diving in felt overdue — and L.S. Stratton made the wait worth it. What starts as a corporate celebration gone wrong quickly unravels into a layered whodunit that kept me constantly second-guessing myself. I had early suspicions about who the villain might be… and I was gloriously wrong. That’s the exact kind of thriller experience I love.
Stratton structures this story through dual timelines — the lavish birthday party that ends in murder, and the present day, where Nicole Underwood consults on a film based on that same night. The narrative switch is seamless, tightening the suspense and giving more dimension to Nicole’s fear, ambition, and the political minefield of the corporate world she’s still entangled in.
One of the strengths of this novel is its genre blending. Stratton folds in dark humor, sharp social commentary, corporate intrigue, and a sprinkle of romance without losing the core mystery at its center. The pacing stays brisk, the tension remains high, and even though the story is breezy and easy to follow, it never once feels shallow. Instead, it sneaks up on you — a thriller that surprises not with shock value, but with how cleverly the pieces fit together.
I’ve been a fan of L.S. Stratton since Not So Perfect Strangers, and this novel reminded me exactly why. In Deadly Company is smart, entertaining, and full of turns you won’t see coming. A solid, satisfying whodunit that delivers exactly what it promises.
Stratton structures this story through dual timelines — the lavish birthday party that ends in murder, and the present day, where Nicole Underwood consults on a film based on that same night. The narrative switch is seamless, tightening the suspense and giving more dimension to Nicole’s fear, ambition, and the political minefield of the corporate world she’s still entangled in.
One of the strengths of this novel is its genre blending. Stratton folds in dark humor, sharp social commentary, corporate intrigue, and a sprinkle of romance without losing the core mystery at its center. The pacing stays brisk, the tension remains high, and even though the story is breezy and easy to follow, it never once feels shallow. Instead, it sneaks up on you — a thriller that surprises not with shock value, but with how cleverly the pieces fit together.
I’ve been a fan of L.S. Stratton since Not So Perfect Strangers, and this novel reminded me exactly why. In Deadly Company is smart, entertaining, and full of turns you won’t see coming. A solid, satisfying whodunit that delivers exactly what it promises.
Did not finish
January 28, 2026This just felt really YA to me and I wasn't connecting to the MC. DNF at 18%
Read
January 26, 2026Just an OK book. Will I remember any of the characters? No. Was the plot original or the twist satisfying? No to both. Did I complete the book club assignment? Yes.
September 15, 2025
Thank you Booksparks and Union Square & Co for the #gifted copies and thank you Hachette Audio for my #gifted listening copy of In Deadly Company! #FRC2025 #PracticalBookMagic #InDeadlyCompany #LSStratton #unionsquareandco #booksparks #hachetteaudio
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐈𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐲
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐋.𝐒. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐧
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫: 𝐊𝐡𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Nicole is the assistant to Xander, who inherited his mother’s company after she passed away tragically in an accident. Nicole can’t stand working for Xander, and plans to quit after she helps him plan a lavish birthday party. Nicole was his mother’s assistant before she died, and stayed with the company to help keep Xander organized. But when the birthday party she helps plan for Xander tragically ends in his death, she agrees to consult on a feature film to set the record straight about what happened based on her story. But soon her experiences are put to the side by other cast members that are brought in the secrets they start to share.
This book had a lot of twists and really had something for everyone. It was fast-paced and I thought the way it was told was extremely creative!
💌Workplace Drama
💌Dark Humor
💌Plot Twists
💌Murder Mystery
💌Film Adaption
💌Fast-Paced
🎧Narrated by Khaya Fraites, you can’t go wrong with this audiobook! I knew as soon as I saw her listed as the narrator, I was in for a real treat with this one! I thought she did such a great job with the various voices and characters and making this such a fun listening experience. I would definitely recommend this one on audio. I had a great time listening to Fraites bring this one to life!
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐈𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐲
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐋.𝐒. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐧
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫: 𝐊𝐡𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
Nicole is the assistant to Xander, who inherited his mother’s company after she passed away tragically in an accident. Nicole can’t stand working for Xander, and plans to quit after she helps him plan a lavish birthday party. Nicole was his mother’s assistant before she died, and stayed with the company to help keep Xander organized. But when the birthday party she helps plan for Xander tragically ends in his death, she agrees to consult on a feature film to set the record straight about what happened based on her story. But soon her experiences are put to the side by other cast members that are brought in the secrets they start to share.
This book had a lot of twists and really had something for everyone. It was fast-paced and I thought the way it was told was extremely creative!
💌Workplace Drama
💌Dark Humor
💌Plot Twists
💌Murder Mystery
💌Film Adaption
💌Fast-Paced
🎧Narrated by Khaya Fraites, you can’t go wrong with this audiobook! I knew as soon as I saw her listed as the narrator, I was in for a real treat with this one! I thought she did such a great job with the various voices and characters and making this such a fun listening experience. I would definitely recommend this one on audio. I had a great time listening to Fraites bring this one to life!
October 12, 2025
Thank you @BookSparks and @ShellyStrattonBooks for my complimentary copy
I am so excited to be an official ambassador for #FRC2025 and I really enjoyed this book!
SUMMARY: Nicole Underwood, the assistant to a Fortune 500 CEO, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation following a chaotic birthday party for her boss, Xander Chambers, where she is one of the few survivors. A year later, while consulting on a film about the incident, she faces challenges on set, grappling with her traumatic memories and the complexities of her perceived guilt.
MY THOUGHTS: I was not expecting the tension in this workplace drama as this tale of rivalry and secrets gradually unfolded. The dual timelines— an extravagant and chaotic birthday weekend in the past and a present-day film adaptation—made for a uniquely compelling narrative that kept me turning the pages!
Nicole, the main character, was both relatable and likable, and I couldn’t help but root for her while I questioned the motives of everyone around her. The final revelation was stunning! Overall, this book brilliantly captured the dark undercurrents of ambition in a toxic workplace.
I am so excited to be an official ambassador for #FRC2025 and I really enjoyed this book!
SUMMARY: Nicole Underwood, the assistant to a Fortune 500 CEO, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation following a chaotic birthday party for her boss, Xander Chambers, where she is one of the few survivors. A year later, while consulting on a film about the incident, she faces challenges on set, grappling with her traumatic memories and the complexities of her perceived guilt.
MY THOUGHTS: I was not expecting the tension in this workplace drama as this tale of rivalry and secrets gradually unfolded. The dual timelines— an extravagant and chaotic birthday weekend in the past and a present-day film adaptation—made for a uniquely compelling narrative that kept me turning the pages!
Nicole, the main character, was both relatable and likable, and I couldn’t help but root for her while I questioned the motives of everyone around her. The final revelation was stunning! Overall, this book brilliantly captured the dark undercurrents of ambition in a toxic workplace.
August 10, 2025
Union Square and Company, a subsidiary of Sterling Publishing, provided an early galley for review.
I was very excited to see Shelley's newest book listed. I enjoyed her last one and wanted to see what she was offering this time around. As she notes at the start, she decided to branch out a bit from her usual this time, always something good to see writers do now and again.
Even still, there are many elements that both this novel and her previous one share. Both have a split narrative structure (past and present). Both have something mysterious that has happened that the reader is slowly let in on as the story progresses. Both also feature very strong female protagonists and an interesting cast of characters.
Overall, I found it to be an engaging read with a plot that moved at a good pace to keep me turning pages. The POV mostly stays with Nicole, though it does stray to two other characters a bit in order to reveal events that Nicole would not be aware of at the time they occurred. These switches are for the reader's benefit.
For those who enjoy arcs of empowerment and comeuppance, this book should deliver.
I was very excited to see Shelley's newest book listed. I enjoyed her last one and wanted to see what she was offering this time around. As she notes at the start, she decided to branch out a bit from her usual this time, always something good to see writers do now and again.
Even still, there are many elements that both this novel and her previous one share. Both have a split narrative structure (past and present). Both have something mysterious that has happened that the reader is slowly let in on as the story progresses. Both also feature very strong female protagonists and an interesting cast of characters.
Overall, I found it to be an engaging read with a plot that moved at a good pace to keep me turning pages. The POV mostly stays with Nicole, though it does stray to two other characters a bit in order to reveal events that Nicole would not be aware of at the time they occurred. These switches are for the reader's benefit.
For those who enjoy arcs of empowerment and comeuppance, this book should deliver.
April 28, 2025
I grabbed this advance copy from a stack that my school librarian had brought back from a convention, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I love the shorter chapters and the pacing of the storyline. It kept me engaged and entertained throughout. I will definitely look for other books written by L. S. Stratton!
August 30, 2025
In Deadly Company, it has all the components of a great murder mystery. I couldn't get enough, I loved it so much! 💫💫💫💫💫
Nicole is the perfect assistant. She worked under and was trained by her former employer, Bridget. Upon Bridget's death, Nicole agrees to work for her son and heir Xander while a new assistant is hired and trained. Nicole's last job is to throw Xander a birthday party like no other. While Nicole is handling the guests for the three day birthday bash, she is also spying on the guests for an unknown person. She has hired a boy toy to keep an eye on Anna, Bridget's sister. She also has an au pair keeping an eye on Mark and Charlotte Danfrey, Xander's college friends. Nicole believes Bridget was murdered and someone attending the party is the killer.
Perfect murder mystery for the summer. All the guests have secrets and alterior motives for attending the party, They are all selfish, money hungry, and devious characters, and they are all guilty of something. The red envelopes were such a nice touch!
Thank you, Netgalley and Union Square & Co., for this eArc. All opinions are entirely my own.
Nicole is the perfect assistant. She worked under and was trained by her former employer, Bridget. Upon Bridget's death, Nicole agrees to work for her son and heir Xander while a new assistant is hired and trained. Nicole's last job is to throw Xander a birthday party like no other. While Nicole is handling the guests for the three day birthday bash, she is also spying on the guests for an unknown person. She has hired a boy toy to keep an eye on Anna, Bridget's sister. She also has an au pair keeping an eye on Mark and Charlotte Danfrey, Xander's college friends. Nicole believes Bridget was murdered and someone attending the party is the killer.
Perfect murder mystery for the summer. All the guests have secrets and alterior motives for attending the party, They are all selfish, money hungry, and devious characters, and they are all guilty of something. The red envelopes were such a nice touch!
Thank you, Netgalley and Union Square & Co., for this eArc. All opinions are entirely my own.
July 31, 2025
4.5✨ rounded up
Thank you to NetGalley, Union Square & Co, & LS Stratton for the early copy of this book!
This book was sooo fun! As a former executive assistant I was able to relate with Nicole, our protagonist, in dealing with ✨difficult✨ people 🤣🤣
I really enjoyed this storyline and Nicole as a character. I loved how the author was able to highlight the experiences of being a Black woman in corporate and how sometimes we have to “play the game” to get ahead. I loved the dual timeline showing the events of the murder and then fast forwarding to the movie being created. The author also did a great job of making some of these characters INSUFFERABLE based on their role at this company. There was also a small romantic subplot that I wish was fleshed out a bit more but I still really enjoyed that dynamic.
In Deadly Company is so fast paced & twisty & is the perfect summer/early fall read! This book is slated to come out on September 2nd, 2025 & it is a must read!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Union Square & Co, & LS Stratton for the early copy of this book!
This book was sooo fun! As a former executive assistant I was able to relate with Nicole, our protagonist, in dealing with ✨difficult✨ people 🤣🤣
I really enjoyed this storyline and Nicole as a character. I loved how the author was able to highlight the experiences of being a Black woman in corporate and how sometimes we have to “play the game” to get ahead. I loved the dual timeline showing the events of the murder and then fast forwarding to the movie being created. The author also did a great job of making some of these characters INSUFFERABLE based on their role at this company. There was also a small romantic subplot that I wish was fleshed out a bit more but I still really enjoyed that dynamic.
In Deadly Company is so fast paced & twisty & is the perfect summer/early fall read! This book is slated to come out on September 2nd, 2025 & it is a must read!!
June 18, 2025
Okay… this book was so much fun. I wasn’t expecting to love it as much as I did, but once I started, I couldn’t stop. It was giving Knives Out vibes and I was there for it!
In Deadly Company is sharp, twisty, and deliciously dark, with with a splash of workplace satire and just enough chaos to make every single chapter feel like something big is about to drop, all wrapped up in a really cute cover.
The story centers around Nicole Underwood, who works as a personal assistant to Xander Chambers—CEO of absolutely nothing, but riding the legacy of his powerful (and recently deceased) mother, Bridget. When Xander ropes her into planning his extravagant birthday weekend at a remote estate, she reluctantly agrees, mostly because she suspects someone in that inner circle knows the truth about Bridget’s death, and this weekend might be her chance to finally get answers.
And does she get her answers? Well, she gets more than she bargained for. By the end of the weekend, people are dead, Nicole is in the middle of a full-blown scandal, and a year later, she’s consulting on the film adaptation of the whole chaotic weekend.
The book bounces between the past - the weekend at Maple Grove, and the present - the film set, and the dual timeline works so well. It builds suspense and adds layers to the tension, keeping you guessing until the very end.
One thing I absolutely loved was how the author played with genres and sub genres in this one. It’s a Whodunnit murder mystery, but it’s also corporate satire, a bit of a revenge story, with side dish of Hollywood chaos. And somehow it all works out. It’s fast paced, quirky and twisty af!
Huge thanks to L.S Stratton and Union Square & Co for access to the ARC copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In Deadly Company is sharp, twisty, and deliciously dark, with with a splash of workplace satire and just enough chaos to make every single chapter feel like something big is about to drop, all wrapped up in a really cute cover.
The story centers around Nicole Underwood, who works as a personal assistant to Xander Chambers—CEO of absolutely nothing, but riding the legacy of his powerful (and recently deceased) mother, Bridget. When Xander ropes her into planning his extravagant birthday weekend at a remote estate, she reluctantly agrees, mostly because she suspects someone in that inner circle knows the truth about Bridget’s death, and this weekend might be her chance to finally get answers.
And does she get her answers? Well, she gets more than she bargained for. By the end of the weekend, people are dead, Nicole is in the middle of a full-blown scandal, and a year later, she’s consulting on the film adaptation of the whole chaotic weekend.
The book bounces between the past - the weekend at Maple Grove, and the present - the film set, and the dual timeline works so well. It builds suspense and adds layers to the tension, keeping you guessing until the very end.
One thing I absolutely loved was how the author played with genres and sub genres in this one. It’s a Whodunnit murder mystery, but it’s also corporate satire, a bit of a revenge story, with side dish of Hollywood chaos. And somehow it all works out. It’s fast paced, quirky and twisty af!
Huge thanks to L.S Stratton and Union Square & Co for access to the ARC copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Union Square for the advanced reader copy.
Nicole Underwood has lived through something horrendous--she is one of the few survivors of an incident where her boss and all of his friends are killed. Now, she's a consultant on the movie being made about the event, though she's still hiding the same kind of secrets that led to the deaths to begin with. In a dual timeline--one that takes the reader through the days leading up to the mass of deaths and one in the present, where Nicole battles her guilt at selling her story--Nicole must come to terms with the part she played in the events of the past and decide what to do in the future to take back control of her story.
The thing that stood out to me most about this story was a the pacing. The author did an excellent job of cutting back and forth in time at just the right moments, that kept me wanting to know more about what exactly happened on the night that people were killed and how all the different pieces (Nicole's role as assistant to her former boss's son, the people she hired who've been working for the son's friends and family, who Nicole is working with behind the scenes and what her goal is in having these people followed) fit together. Nicole was a complex character who, in her twenties walked the fine line of having extreme confidence in her abilities and insecurity about herself. This was a fun, fast-paced read for those who like mystery/thrillers.
In Deadly Company is out September 2, 2025.
Nicole Underwood has lived through something horrendous--she is one of the few survivors of an incident where her boss and all of his friends are killed. Now, she's a consultant on the movie being made about the event, though she's still hiding the same kind of secrets that led to the deaths to begin with. In a dual timeline--one that takes the reader through the days leading up to the mass of deaths and one in the present, where Nicole battles her guilt at selling her story--Nicole must come to terms with the part she played in the events of the past and decide what to do in the future to take back control of her story.
The thing that stood out to me most about this story was a the pacing. The author did an excellent job of cutting back and forth in time at just the right moments, that kept me wanting to know more about what exactly happened on the night that people were killed and how all the different pieces (Nicole's role as assistant to her former boss's son, the people she hired who've been working for the son's friends and family, who Nicole is working with behind the scenes and what her goal is in having these people followed) fit together. Nicole was a complex character who, in her twenties walked the fine line of having extreme confidence in her abilities and insecurity about herself. This was a fun, fast-paced read for those who like mystery/thrillers.
In Deadly Company is out September 2, 2025.
October 19, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars
Thank you @hachetteaudio #partner for the free alc 💖.
A year after the crazy birthday party she planned ended with her boss Xander’s accidental death, Nicole signs on to help with a movie about what really happened. But once she’s on set, she gets frustrated, as her side of the story keeps getting ignored because of weird casting and script changes. Still dealing with the aftermath and weird visions of Xander, Nicole looks back on her time working for his late mom, and how she tried to dig up family secrets, never imagining the party would end so badly.
This was quite the premise full of twists that felt so outrageous and honestly, a little unbelievable, but fun nonetheless. The characters were also crazy, so be ready to suspend disbelief and enjoy! I didn’t see the big twist coming and it surprised me!
🎧The audiobook was short, only 7 hours and 47 minutes, easy to follow, and narrated by Khaya Fraites. She did a great job with each of the character’s voices and truly brought the story to life keeping the intense pace going throughout. It was a great listen.
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Read if you like:
⭐️Workplace toxicity
⭐️Dark humor
⭐️Murder mysteries
⭐️Fast paced stories
⭐️Twists and turns
⭐️Whodunnits
⚠️CW: Mentions of car accident, gun violence, suicide on the page, death.
Thank you @hachetteaudio #partner for the free alc 💖.
A year after the crazy birthday party she planned ended with her boss Xander’s accidental death, Nicole signs on to help with a movie about what really happened. But once she’s on set, she gets frustrated, as her side of the story keeps getting ignored because of weird casting and script changes. Still dealing with the aftermath and weird visions of Xander, Nicole looks back on her time working for his late mom, and how she tried to dig up family secrets, never imagining the party would end so badly.
This was quite the premise full of twists that felt so outrageous and honestly, a little unbelievable, but fun nonetheless. The characters were also crazy, so be ready to suspend disbelief and enjoy! I didn’t see the big twist coming and it surprised me!
🎧The audiobook was short, only 7 hours and 47 minutes, easy to follow, and narrated by Khaya Fraites. She did a great job with each of the character’s voices and truly brought the story to life keeping the intense pace going throughout. It was a great listen.
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Read if you like:
⭐️Workplace toxicity
⭐️Dark humor
⭐️Murder mysteries
⭐️Fast paced stories
⭐️Twists and turns
⭐️Whodunnits
⚠️CW: Mentions of car accident, gun violence, suicide on the page, death.
September 23, 2025
This was a fast paced mystery that I couldn’t put down. The setup was intriguing, an overworked assistant caught in the chaos of her boss’s lavish birthday party that spirals into murder, and it delivered plenty of suspense. I’ll admit, I was able to piece together who was responsible about halfway through, but the story still managed to keep me guessing with its twists and shifting tensions. What I didn’t expect at all was Nicole’s comeuppance, which added an extra punch to the ending.
Nicole herself was an interesting character to follow. At times, she came across as naïve and too much of a pushover, which made me want to shake her, but there were also moments where I felt genuine sympathy for her situation. That push-and-pull made her journey feel realistic, even when frustrating. The mix of corporate drama, media pressure, and Hollywood’s spin on the truth added layers that kept things engaging.
Overall, it was a solid mystery that balanced suspense with character drama, and I found myself turning the pages quickly to see how it would all play out.
Thanks Netgalley and Union Square & Co. - A subsidiary of Sterling Publishing | Union Square & Co for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.
Nicole herself was an interesting character to follow. At times, she came across as naïve and too much of a pushover, which made me want to shake her, but there were also moments where I felt genuine sympathy for her situation. That push-and-pull made her journey feel realistic, even when frustrating. The mix of corporate drama, media pressure, and Hollywood’s spin on the truth added layers that kept things engaging.
Overall, it was a solid mystery that balanced suspense with character drama, and I found myself turning the pages quickly to see how it would all play out.
Thanks Netgalley and Union Square & Co. - A subsidiary of Sterling Publishing | Union Square & Co for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.
July 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Union Square & Co. - A subsidiary of Sterling Publishing for providing this book, with my honest review below.
In Deadly Company is incredibly fun, positioning the reader as a silent Detective Benoit Blanc while simultaneously making fun of workplace dysfunction. Nicole is the main character who tells the story through a dual timeline, in the present during filming of an adaptation of the weekend that resulted in her nepo baby boss’s death (which we get to transport to since the film is taking some creative liberties). The past timeline sheds light on her role as an assistant to said nepo baby, a role she’s fed up with and plans to quit after the party she’s organized with the ulterior motive to figure out the mystery behind his mother’s death. It feels like a lot but this story is masterfully done and truly doesn’t miss a beat, really wrapping the reader up in figuring out what exactly happened that weekend and what Nicole’s scheme involves. The characters were a bit like caricatures but Nicole herself undergoes some really wonderful characters growth that is just the cherry on top of a fun book.
In Deadly Company is incredibly fun, positioning the reader as a silent Detective Benoit Blanc while simultaneously making fun of workplace dysfunction. Nicole is the main character who tells the story through a dual timeline, in the present during filming of an adaptation of the weekend that resulted in her nepo baby boss’s death (which we get to transport to since the film is taking some creative liberties). The past timeline sheds light on her role as an assistant to said nepo baby, a role she’s fed up with and plans to quit after the party she’s organized with the ulterior motive to figure out the mystery behind his mother’s death. It feels like a lot but this story is masterfully done and truly doesn’t miss a beat, really wrapping the reader up in figuring out what exactly happened that weekend and what Nicole’s scheme involves. The characters were a bit like caricatures but Nicole herself undergoes some really wonderful characters growth that is just the cherry on top of a fun book.
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