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Detective Emily Hunter #3
Illusion of Truth
Hunter becomes the hunted
Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter is exposed to inhumanity on a daily basis—it's the unfortunate baggage that comes with police work, and she's mostly learned how to shoulder the load. But it all turns personal when her fellow cop and boyfriend, Brian Conner, is caught in the blast of a targeted church bombing.
Brian is gravely injured, suffering a traumatic brain injury. But the attacks don't stop there—soon, more officers come under fire, and Emily searches for a connection. She and her partner, Javier Medina, discover that Brian and the other injured officers share a common past—a past that now has them targeted for payback.
Battling with heartbreak, Emily has to identify who's responsible for the string of attacks and stop them before there are more casualties. Will Brian ever be the same again? Already grappling with her mother's progressing Alzheimer's, Emily can't bear the thought of losing both of the people she loves most.
Though it feels impossible, Emily must stay focused on finding the criminals who uprooted her life—and making sure that justice is served.
Perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter and Michael Connelly
While the novels in the Detective Emily Hunter Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order, the publication sequence
Face of Greed
River of Lies
Illusion of Truth
Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter is exposed to inhumanity on a daily basis—it's the unfortunate baggage that comes with police work, and she's mostly learned how to shoulder the load. But it all turns personal when her fellow cop and boyfriend, Brian Conner, is caught in the blast of a targeted church bombing.
Brian is gravely injured, suffering a traumatic brain injury. But the attacks don't stop there—soon, more officers come under fire, and Emily searches for a connection. She and her partner, Javier Medina, discover that Brian and the other injured officers share a common past—a past that now has them targeted for payback.
Battling with heartbreak, Emily has to identify who's responsible for the string of attacks and stop them before there are more casualties. Will Brian ever be the same again? Already grappling with her mother's progressing Alzheimer's, Emily can't bear the thought of losing both of the people she loves most.
Though it feels impossible, Emily must stay focused on finding the criminals who uprooted her life—and making sure that justice is served.
Perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter and Michael Connelly
While the novels in the Detective Emily Hunter Mystery Series stand on their own and can be read in any order, the publication sequence
Face of Greed
River of Lies
Illusion of Truth
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2026
About the author
James L'Etoile
20 books353 followersJames L’Etoile uses his twenty-nine years behind bars as an influence in his novels, short stories, and screenplays. He is a former associate warden in a maximum-security prison, a hostage negotiator, facility captain, and director of California’s state parole system. He is a nationally recognized expert witness on prison and jail operations. He is a two-time Silver Falchion Award nominee and shortlisted for the Bill Crider Award for short fiction. His published novels include: Dead Drop( Lefty Award nominee), Black Label (Silver Falchion winner), At What Cost, Bury the Past, and Little River -The Other Side of Paradise. You can find out more at www.jamesletoile.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 14, 2026
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
ILLUSION OF TRUTH (A Detective Emily Hunter Mystery Book #3) by James L’Etoile is another suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat police procedural/crime thriller/mystery mash-up featuring Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter. I anxiously wait for each new book from Mr. L’Etoile in this series and the Detective Nathan Parker series. He has become one of my favorite writers in this genre with his fully developed memorable main characters and intricately twisted crime plots. While each crime plot/mystery is complete in each book, the characters and their relationships continue to evolve, and I feel the series are best read in order of publication.
Detective Emily Hunter receives a call that her fellow police officer and boyfriend, Sgt. Brian Conner, is in the hospital after being caught in a bomb blast with fellow officers on a fake call for assistance. As Emily and her partner, Det. Javier “Javi” Medina begin their investigation, the bombings continue to injure other officers and then finally the bomber murders a target. They discover all the officers were targeted due to a shared incident in their past.
Trying to pull all the threads from the past together in this investigation is not easy, while also dealing with Brian’s PTSD and TBI, and her mother’s continued mental decline due to Alzheimer’s. Will Emily be able to discover how the past is influencing the bombings of today and bring the killer to justice?
I find I need to set aside a block of time for these books because I cannot put them down. The books pull you in with Emily’s personal trials and her sometimes full hardy, but always genius ways of solving crimes and bringing the guilty to justice. While I follow every twist and turn of the investigation, I am always surprised by a last-minute twist in each plot that shocks me. You may think you know the resolution, but there is always more.
I highly recommend this addition to the Det. Emily Hunter series and cannot wait for more.
ILLUSION OF TRUTH (A Detective Emily Hunter Mystery Book #3) by James L’Etoile is another suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat police procedural/crime thriller/mystery mash-up featuring Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter. I anxiously wait for each new book from Mr. L’Etoile in this series and the Detective Nathan Parker series. He has become one of my favorite writers in this genre with his fully developed memorable main characters and intricately twisted crime plots. While each crime plot/mystery is complete in each book, the characters and their relationships continue to evolve, and I feel the series are best read in order of publication.
Detective Emily Hunter receives a call that her fellow police officer and boyfriend, Sgt. Brian Conner, is in the hospital after being caught in a bomb blast with fellow officers on a fake call for assistance. As Emily and her partner, Det. Javier “Javi” Medina begin their investigation, the bombings continue to injure other officers and then finally the bomber murders a target. They discover all the officers were targeted due to a shared incident in their past.
Trying to pull all the threads from the past together in this investigation is not easy, while also dealing with Brian’s PTSD and TBI, and her mother’s continued mental decline due to Alzheimer’s. Will Emily be able to discover how the past is influencing the bombings of today and bring the killer to justice?
I find I need to set aside a block of time for these books because I cannot put them down. The books pull you in with Emily’s personal trials and her sometimes full hardy, but always genius ways of solving crimes and bringing the guilty to justice. While I follow every twist and turn of the investigation, I am always surprised by a last-minute twist in each plot that shocks me. You may think you know the resolution, but there is always more.
I highly recommend this addition to the Det. Emily Hunter series and cannot wait for more.
December 20, 2025
I am familiar with James L’Etoile’s name, but I have never read any of his work. His books sound right up my alley, so when I saw Illusion Of Truth and had the time to read it, I grabbed a copy. James does not disappoint.
Detective Emily Hunt is used to running towards danger, so when her boyfriend, also a cop, Brian Connor, is hurt in a church bombing, she will stop at nothing to find who is responsible. She has no idea how deep the conspiracy goes. By choosing to go slow with their relationship, did she lose her chance at happiness? She also has to cope with her mother’s dementia. How long before she doesn’t recognize who Amanda is?
It seems the villain is targeting the police. Why? What grievance could they have that would cause them to go to such extremes? Mystery and danger abound.
James L’Etoile supplies us with a hefty dose of suspects. I looked for the villain through a process of elimination, but he was not on my radar when James finally exposed him. I do love a story that keeps me guessing until the end.
See more at https://www.fundinmental.com
Detective Emily Hunt is used to running towards danger, so when her boyfriend, also a cop, Brian Connor, is hurt in a church bombing, she will stop at nothing to find who is responsible. She has no idea how deep the conspiracy goes. By choosing to go slow with their relationship, did she lose her chance at happiness? She also has to cope with her mother’s dementia. How long before she doesn’t recognize who Amanda is?
It seems the villain is targeting the police. Why? What grievance could they have that would cause them to go to such extremes? Mystery and danger abound.
James L’Etoile supplies us with a hefty dose of suspects. I looked for the villain through a process of elimination, but he was not on my radar when James finally exposed him. I do love a story that keeps me guessing until the end.
See more at https://www.fundinmental.com
November 28, 2025
Detective Emily Hunter Mystery book # 3
This author is giving us a police story that is much more then an exciting police procedural mystery. It is filled with complications, revelations and setbacks. So many twists and turns it is very hard to figure what the next move will be…they keep on coming and soon another one and after that another one. Don’t miss out, see for yourself. This mystery is one of the best one I read this year.
The story and my thoughts in a few words:
A series of explosions rocks Sacramento, Det Emily Hunter is particularly affected when her love interest Sgt. Brian Conner was badly hurt in an explosion while responding to a false call. The bomber has only started and subsequent attacks were done on other colleagues. As the investigation moves on at a fast pace, it implicates a councilman, a vocal opponent of the police. It doesn’t stay there, one move leads to another, the swat team is implicated while further attempts are made on the lives of cops suggesting a strong desire for revenge….but why and who is behind all of thing carnage.
The tension is at a high level all through no time to breath, I was so involved with what was going on I had a hard time putting this very exciting story aside, the author maintains nerve-jangling tension throughout and does an excellent job at capturing the attention and keeping us captive.
This latest is an absolutely relentless thriller, a crisp and fast-paced police procedural played out by characters that have emotional depth and show perseverance.
This another top-notch hit penned by James
This book was made available for a sort time at Oceanview Publishing, I couldn’t resists it, I knew I was in for a treat.
This author is giving us a police story that is much more then an exciting police procedural mystery. It is filled with complications, revelations and setbacks. So many twists and turns it is very hard to figure what the next move will be…they keep on coming and soon another one and after that another one. Don’t miss out, see for yourself. This mystery is one of the best one I read this year.
The story and my thoughts in a few words:
A series of explosions rocks Sacramento, Det Emily Hunter is particularly affected when her love interest Sgt. Brian Conner was badly hurt in an explosion while responding to a false call. The bomber has only started and subsequent attacks were done on other colleagues. As the investigation moves on at a fast pace, it implicates a councilman, a vocal opponent of the police. It doesn’t stay there, one move leads to another, the swat team is implicated while further attempts are made on the lives of cops suggesting a strong desire for revenge….but why and who is behind all of thing carnage.
The tension is at a high level all through no time to breath, I was so involved with what was going on I had a hard time putting this very exciting story aside, the author maintains nerve-jangling tension throughout and does an excellent job at capturing the attention and keeping us captive.
This latest is an absolutely relentless thriller, a crisp and fast-paced police procedural played out by characters that have emotional depth and show perseverance.
This another top-notch hit penned by James
This book was made available for a sort time at Oceanview Publishing, I couldn’t resists it, I knew I was in for a treat.
November 20, 2025
Good characters, good plot, and interesting forensic details
Illusion of Truth opens with a gripping and intriguing scene in which a church is apparently targeted by a bombing. Detective Emily Hunter’s boyfriend Sergeant Brian Conner is seriously injured, which makes her especially determined to find the criminals and get full justice. As she pursues the case, though, the questions of who really was behind the attack, what their motivation was, and who or what was the actual target becomes more and more puzzling.
Plot is the most important element of a book, but good characters make it come alive. Emily and her partner Javier interact very believably as partners and friends. We also hear about their private lives, such as Emily’s challenges of dealing with her mother’s dementia and Javier’s distress over the possibility of his girlfriend taking a job out of state. Emily’s personality is especially enjoyable. She responds to things in very believable ways, and her sharp wit provided a good ending and left me with a smile on my face as I closed the book.
The author uses his background gained from a 29-year career in the California criminal justice system well. The plot and characters are enhanced with interesting, and credible events involving things like communications between government departments such as the mayor’s office and the Office of Public Safety Accountability
You need not have read the previous books in this series to enjoy Illusion of Truth. They all share the same features that I enjoyed in this book and the previous book, River of Lies, so I have high expectations for the next instalment!
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Oceanview Publishing.
Illusion of Truth opens with a gripping and intriguing scene in which a church is apparently targeted by a bombing. Detective Emily Hunter’s boyfriend Sergeant Brian Conner is seriously injured, which makes her especially determined to find the criminals and get full justice. As she pursues the case, though, the questions of who really was behind the attack, what their motivation was, and who or what was the actual target becomes more and more puzzling.
Plot is the most important element of a book, but good characters make it come alive. Emily and her partner Javier interact very believably as partners and friends. We also hear about their private lives, such as Emily’s challenges of dealing with her mother’s dementia and Javier’s distress over the possibility of his girlfriend taking a job out of state. Emily’s personality is especially enjoyable. She responds to things in very believable ways, and her sharp wit provided a good ending and left me with a smile on my face as I closed the book.
The author uses his background gained from a 29-year career in the California criminal justice system well. The plot and characters are enhanced with interesting, and credible events involving things like communications between government departments such as the mayor’s office and the Office of Public Safety Accountability
You need not have read the previous books in this series to enjoy Illusion of Truth. They all share the same features that I enjoyed in this book and the previous book, River of Lies, so I have high expectations for the next instalment!
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Oceanview Publishing.
January 8, 2026
An Engaging and Complex Police Procedural
Sergeant Brian Connor, with his rookie partner, Tommy Robinson, is responding to a burglary with a large crowd at a church. Conner wonders why someone would target a church at midnight. Sacramento has recently seen flash mobs looting stores. When Connor and Robinson arrive, six officers have already responded. Tommy sees what appears to be a cigarette glow on the second building across the street. The hairs on Connor's neck prick up as he feels that they are being lured to this spot. Robinson wanted to check the front entrance. He and Connor approach the door and see that the church is empty inside. Connor notices a wire coming from a collection box at the entrance. Robinson starts to remove the top. Connor yells to stop and pushes him away. The collection box explodes, knocking Connor off his feet and throwing him against a brick wall. When he comes to, his ears are ringing, and he notices that the glowing cigarette is gone. He couldn't reach his shoulder radio mike. He looks and sees that his arm is broken and bent in the wrong direction. He hears another explosion and sees a police unit on fire. From this literal explosive start, the novel proceeds.
This novel has two main storyline threads. The first is the investigation with multiple court sequences similar to a popular long-running TV show. The second thread is very minor and opens as a supporting role in the first thread. The protagonist is Detective Emily Hunter. This investigation is complex and difficult professionally and personally. This author does a marvelous job of keeping the reader focused on the fact that the investigation is going in the right direction until it isn’t. These large twists occur regularly. The suspense in this novel is maintained by successive attacks on the police, with Detective Hunter the target of more than one. It is this aspect of the novel that quickly captured my attention and solidly held it to the end.
The character development of Detective Hunter is strong. She is involved in three threads. The first is her relationship with her partner, both professional and personal, as she tries to help her partner through a relationship issue. The other two threads affect her ability to perform her job. One is that she was about to move in with Sergeant Connor. As a result of his injuries, his personality has shifted. The other is her mother’s dementia, as she is designated to make the medical decisions, which take precedence over all other aspects of her life. These are supplemented by her interactions with her lieutenant, the police chief, and even the major.
The trifecta of aspects that can cause some readers to stop reading is present, but only the violence is significant. There are quite a few violent and descriptive scenes, all described as they occur. These scenes are much more focused on the characters' responses to the violence than on simply describing it. It should not be much of an issue for most readers. For the other aspects, there are no intimate scenes. Language is more rude than vulgar. This novel is the third in the series, and the first one that I read. I did not notice any references to the previous novels, so that it can be read as a standalone novel.
The only issue I had was several inaccuracies in the explosive composition. It really is minor, and may be due to the uncorrected nature of the prepublication version I was reading. I thoroughly enjoyed a novel with a very complex plot that was also so easy to read and follow. I had marked many potential loose ends. At the end, they had all been answered. This is the first novel by this author I have read. Just reading their teasers on Amazon and reviewer comments convinced me to purchase the first two novels in the series before reading this one. Reading this novel has confirmed the wisdom of that decision. I do not rate an author until I have read at least two novels, so it is Pending. I highly recommend reading this novel and eagerly await his next. I rate this novel with five stars.
I received the free, prepublication e-book version of this novel from Oceanview Publishing through Edelweiss+. My review is based solely on my own reading experience. Thank you, Oceanview Publishing, for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
Sergeant Brian Connor, with his rookie partner, Tommy Robinson, is responding to a burglary with a large crowd at a church. Conner wonders why someone would target a church at midnight. Sacramento has recently seen flash mobs looting stores. When Connor and Robinson arrive, six officers have already responded. Tommy sees what appears to be a cigarette glow on the second building across the street. The hairs on Connor's neck prick up as he feels that they are being lured to this spot. Robinson wanted to check the front entrance. He and Connor approach the door and see that the church is empty inside. Connor notices a wire coming from a collection box at the entrance. Robinson starts to remove the top. Connor yells to stop and pushes him away. The collection box explodes, knocking Connor off his feet and throwing him against a brick wall. When he comes to, his ears are ringing, and he notices that the glowing cigarette is gone. He couldn't reach his shoulder radio mike. He looks and sees that his arm is broken and bent in the wrong direction. He hears another explosion and sees a police unit on fire. From this literal explosive start, the novel proceeds.
This novel has two main storyline threads. The first is the investigation with multiple court sequences similar to a popular long-running TV show. The second thread is very minor and opens as a supporting role in the first thread. The protagonist is Detective Emily Hunter. This investigation is complex and difficult professionally and personally. This author does a marvelous job of keeping the reader focused on the fact that the investigation is going in the right direction until it isn’t. These large twists occur regularly. The suspense in this novel is maintained by successive attacks on the police, with Detective Hunter the target of more than one. It is this aspect of the novel that quickly captured my attention and solidly held it to the end.
The character development of Detective Hunter is strong. She is involved in three threads. The first is her relationship with her partner, both professional and personal, as she tries to help her partner through a relationship issue. The other two threads affect her ability to perform her job. One is that she was about to move in with Sergeant Connor. As a result of his injuries, his personality has shifted. The other is her mother’s dementia, as she is designated to make the medical decisions, which take precedence over all other aspects of her life. These are supplemented by her interactions with her lieutenant, the police chief, and even the major.
The trifecta of aspects that can cause some readers to stop reading is present, but only the violence is significant. There are quite a few violent and descriptive scenes, all described as they occur. These scenes are much more focused on the characters' responses to the violence than on simply describing it. It should not be much of an issue for most readers. For the other aspects, there are no intimate scenes. Language is more rude than vulgar. This novel is the third in the series, and the first one that I read. I did not notice any references to the previous novels, so that it can be read as a standalone novel.
The only issue I had was several inaccuracies in the explosive composition. It really is minor, and may be due to the uncorrected nature of the prepublication version I was reading. I thoroughly enjoyed a novel with a very complex plot that was also so easy to read and follow. I had marked many potential loose ends. At the end, they had all been answered. This is the first novel by this author I have read. Just reading their teasers on Amazon and reviewer comments convinced me to purchase the first two novels in the series before reading this one. Reading this novel has confirmed the wisdom of that decision. I do not rate an author until I have read at least two novels, so it is Pending. I highly recommend reading this novel and eagerly await his next. I rate this novel with five stars.
I received the free, prepublication e-book version of this novel from Oceanview Publishing through Edelweiss+. My review is based solely on my own reading experience. Thank you, Oceanview Publishing, for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the 3rd book in the author's Detective Emily Hunter series and it is such a great series! It's definitely one of my favorites!
When Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter's boyfriend, Brian Conner, who is also a fellow police officer, is seriously injured in a church bombing, she does not recuse herself from the case. Instead she dives right in. She's determined to find out who's behind it, especially when the attacks continue and other officers are injured. Is there a connection between the officers who are being targeted? Emily and her partner Javier Medina must search for clues and put the pieces together before more people are hurt.
This book was fast-paced, had tons of action, and kept me glued to the pages! The investigation and the mystery were extremely intriguing. There was so much tension, lots of suspense, and twists I didn't see coming. I love Emily Hunter; she's a bada$$ detective, and she'll do whatever she needs to to get the job done. She's there for her mother, who has dementia, and for her boyfriend, who is struggling with a TBI, all while working the case. She and her partner Javier really make a great team. This was a totally addictive, unputdownable, gripping police procedural/crime thriller. It was extremely entertaining and I enjoyed it SO much! I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your TBR!🩷
When Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter's boyfriend, Brian Conner, who is also a fellow police officer, is seriously injured in a church bombing, she does not recuse herself from the case. Instead she dives right in. She's determined to find out who's behind it, especially when the attacks continue and other officers are injured. Is there a connection between the officers who are being targeted? Emily and her partner Javier Medina must search for clues and put the pieces together before more people are hurt.
This book was fast-paced, had tons of action, and kept me glued to the pages! The investigation and the mystery were extremely intriguing. There was so much tension, lots of suspense, and twists I didn't see coming. I love Emily Hunter; she's a bada$$ detective, and she'll do whatever she needs to to get the job done. She's there for her mother, who has dementia, and for her boyfriend, who is struggling with a TBI, all while working the case. She and her partner Javier really make a great team. This was a totally addictive, unputdownable, gripping police procedural/crime thriller. It was extremely entertaining and I enjoyed it SO much! I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your TBR!🩷
December 20, 2025
Detective Emily strikes again
My first Detective Emily book and will be sure to find the others. Enjoyed the case and her spunk to get things done. Looking forward to reading more about her work on the force.
My first Detective Emily book and will be sure to find the others. Enjoyed the case and her spunk to get things done. Looking forward to reading more about her work on the force.
January 30, 2026
Illusion of Truth by James L'Etoile is book number 3 in the Detective Emily Hunter book series by the author. I have not read the previous books in the Emily Hunter series, however I have read other books by the author, including his Detective Nathan Parker series, so I wanted to give this series a try. The book is bout Detective Emily Hunter who is our FMC. This third book takes us through a church bombing where Brian, her boyfriend is badly injured. And then there of course are more victims and Emily is left figuring out how everything is interrelated. Emily is a relatable character who is dealing with personal issues as a cop and also she is very smart with figuring out whodunit. I really like the writing by the author in his books, including this one as it takes you into many different directions as you are reading with always a twist in the ending. I recommend this series and this book to fans of great police crime mystery thriller!
February 4, 2026
Really enjoy this author. Great storytelling.
January 10, 2026
Lots of Suspense
I enjoyed reading this mystery. It has lots of action. I kept guessing who the bad people were but there was a surprise that I did see at first. Very good book.
I enjoyed reading this mystery. It has lots of action. I kept guessing who the bad people were but there was a surprise that I did see at first. Very good book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Illusion of Truth is action packed, with an intriguing plot and a deep conspiracy that is waiting to be revealed.
Detective Emily Hunt is tough, strong-willed and determined. So when a church bombing hurts her boyfriend Brian Conner, she immediately immerses herself in finding out who is responsible. When other police officers become targets, it is evident that the bomber has an agenda and will stop at nothing to finish what he started.
First time reading an Emily Hunter book and I am hooked. The suspense is engrossing, the plot is so good and the forensic details were very entertaining. Emily also has her own life and struggles and it makes her more likeable and relatable. A great read!
Thank you Oceanview Publishing for this eArc. All opinions are entirely my own.
Detective Emily Hunt is tough, strong-willed and determined. So when a church bombing hurts her boyfriend Brian Conner, she immediately immerses herself in finding out who is responsible. When other police officers become targets, it is evident that the bomber has an agenda and will stop at nothing to finish what he started.
First time reading an Emily Hunter book and I am hooked. The suspense is engrossing, the plot is so good and the forensic details were very entertaining. Emily also has her own life and struggles and it makes her more likeable and relatable. A great read!
Thank you Oceanview Publishing for this eArc. All opinions are entirely my own.
January 15, 2026
Author James L’Etoile introduced readers to Detective Emily Hunter in Face of Greed. He says he embraced the challenge of bringing Emily to life, in part, because during his own long career in law enforcement, which remains a male-dominated profession, he witnessed women being denied the recognition and opportunities they deserve. That aspect of Emily’s career is an integral component of her character. She is dedicated to her career and determined to succeed. And she abhors injustice, including when it is directed at her, refusing to accept being underestimated, and marginalized. She will not be relegated to a lesser role within the Sacramento Police Department that she has earned.
In the second installment of L’Etoile’s engrossing series,
River of Lies, Emily again found herself striving to balance her professional endeavors and personal responsibilities. Sadly, she conceded the necessity of placing her mother into a care facility. Stricken with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, her mother’s condition will not, of course, improve, and Emily had to accept that having her mother live with her simply was no longer manageable or safe. Emily further cemented her partnership with Javier Medina, and finally dared to establish a romantic relationship with Sergeant Brian Conner. However, she was ready to take their relationship to the next level by agreeing to live with him, even though Brian very much wanted them to cohabit. Her reluctance hurt Brian and caused him to question Emily’s willingness and ability to fully commit to him and their union.
L’Etoile wastes no time pulling readers into the action-packed third book in the series, Illusion of Truth. The story opens with a terrifyingly believable description of a targeted attack upon several members of the force, including Brian. Responding to reports of looting at a north Sacramento church at midnight, Brian and his colleagues find the church parking lot deserted, except for the six officers who were dispatched to the scene. The church straddles two rival gang territories. Across the street, Brian sees movement and the flare of a cigarette in an upstairs window, and realizes that he and the others were lured there. But why? As a rookie officer reaches toward a donation box near the front entrance to the church, a fireball erupts. Brian pushes the young officer away, taking the brunt of the explosion. Soon, another explosion is heard, and a police SUV erupts in flames.
Emily is notified of the incident, rushes to the hospital, and hears rim news about Brian’s condition. She also learns that since Brian has no family members, he designated Emily as his surrogate decision-maker. And she is required to take into account Brian’s previously expressed wishes, as well as advice from his treating physicians, in order to make difficult decisions about his care and treatment.
Emily has never before been involved in a case involving a direct attack upon members of the force, and she is eager to commence the investigation. Of course, given her relationship with Brian, she has an inherent and glaring conflict of interest. The case is assigned to Javier, but she is permitted to assist him so long as she respects that he is the lead investigator and she must take direction from him. Is it likely, given Emily’s history and personality, that she will be able to do so?
Officer Clay Milton, who had been dispatched to Emily’s home to transport her to the medical center, begins assisting, as well. Although not a member of the department’s technology team, he exhibits knowledge about electronics and the way the explosive devices were built. He explains that he teaches robotics at a local charter high school on the weekends, and Emily and Javier welcome his ability to explain the technical details to them in a “non-nerd,” understandable manner.
Illusion of Truth proves that L’Etoile’s writing grows more impressive with each successive publication. It may well be his best book to date. The story’s even pace never drags, and he, like the fictional Officer Milton, injects enough technical information to make the story credible without boring readers who are, like Emily and Javier, “non-nerds.” Essentially, the bombs are constructed using circuit boards and operated remotely with a hand-held controller. They emit a high-pitched electronic whine before exploding. And explode they do. Repeatedly. The number of victims grows and includes a city council member and loud critic of the police department with higher political ambition who was attempting to broker a peace deal between the rival gangs; a gang leader; and even a pastor.
As Emily and Javier’s investigation proceeds, it grows tentacles and L’Etoile keeps readers in suspense as to how the various elements and players are connected. Eventually, their inquiry takes Emily and Javier to the home of a retired lieutenant whose career ended abruptly, the surrounding circumstances murky. He now resides in a rural part of nearby El Dorado County, an area in which State of Jefferson flags are commonplace. His home is an armed fortress. But is he the leader of a militia or hiding from one? Moreover, he was the commander of a SWAT team. And Brian was a member, as were several other officers whose names are discovered on a list and whomever is detonating the homemade bombs is writing messages on their components.
The collegial banter between Emily and Javier is humorous and affectionate, and provides brief and welcome respites from L’Etoile’s serious narrative. The dialogue accurately reflects the kind of good-natured joking that defuses the stress that real law enforcement professionals manage.
And L’Etoile explores Emily’s emotional turmoil, both about her mother’s deteriorating condition and her concern for Brian, who remains hospitalized. L’Etoile’s depiction of Brian’s struggle to come to terms with his injuries and condition is moving and believable. Having suffered a brain injury, it is unclear whether Brian will ever fully recover and his career in law enforcement may be over. If his recovery plateaus, will he be able to accept his limitations and a drastically different future than he envisioned before the attack? Emily worries about the same issues, from her perspective as the woman who loves Brian. Because she almost loses him, she appreciates the depth of her feelings for him and regrets telling him she was not ready for them to live together, but will she have a chance to tell him that?
A darker aspect of Emily’s emotional journey are the questions raised when the list of officers is discovered and includes Brian. She has to uncover its meaning, as well as whether any aspect of an incident that involved the SWAT team was covered up. If it was, who was responsible for hiding the truth? She hopes she will find that Brian bore no responsibility for or knowledge of any wrongdoing, but can’t help wondering what she will do if she learns that she doesn’t know Brian as well as she believed, prior to the attack, she did.
Illusion of Truth is another clearly conceived and flawlessly executed thriller that keeps readers guessing right up to the final revelations. L’Etoile’s plot is complex and imaginative, its intricacies revealed at well-timed junctures. He again populates the story with a supporting cast of fascinating characters, each with his or her own distinct purpose and motivations. He again examines contemporary issues through them, including the ongoing gang problems plaguing all large American cities, integrity in law enforcement, and the risks that officers encounter every day when they report for duty. Of course, the never-ending tug-of-war between police leadership and the politicians who control the city’s purse strings is a recurring theme, as well.
Thanks to the author for one paperback copy one electronic copy of the book via Edelweiss in conjunction with Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
In the second installment of L’Etoile’s engrossing series,
River of Lies, Emily again found herself striving to balance her professional endeavors and personal responsibilities. Sadly, she conceded the necessity of placing her mother into a care facility. Stricken with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, her mother’s condition will not, of course, improve, and Emily had to accept that having her mother live with her simply was no longer manageable or safe. Emily further cemented her partnership with Javier Medina, and finally dared to establish a romantic relationship with Sergeant Brian Conner. However, she was ready to take their relationship to the next level by agreeing to live with him, even though Brian very much wanted them to cohabit. Her reluctance hurt Brian and caused him to question Emily’s willingness and ability to fully commit to him and their union.
L’Etoile wastes no time pulling readers into the action-packed third book in the series, Illusion of Truth. The story opens with a terrifyingly believable description of a targeted attack upon several members of the force, including Brian. Responding to reports of looting at a north Sacramento church at midnight, Brian and his colleagues find the church parking lot deserted, except for the six officers who were dispatched to the scene. The church straddles two rival gang territories. Across the street, Brian sees movement and the flare of a cigarette in an upstairs window, and realizes that he and the others were lured there. But why? As a rookie officer reaches toward a donation box near the front entrance to the church, a fireball erupts. Brian pushes the young officer away, taking the brunt of the explosion. Soon, another explosion is heard, and a police SUV erupts in flames.
Emily is notified of the incident, rushes to the hospital, and hears rim news about Brian’s condition. She also learns that since Brian has no family members, he designated Emily as his surrogate decision-maker. And she is required to take into account Brian’s previously expressed wishes, as well as advice from his treating physicians, in order to make difficult decisions about his care and treatment.
Emily has never before been involved in a case involving a direct attack upon members of the force, and she is eager to commence the investigation. Of course, given her relationship with Brian, she has an inherent and glaring conflict of interest. The case is assigned to Javier, but she is permitted to assist him so long as she respects that he is the lead investigator and she must take direction from him. Is it likely, given Emily’s history and personality, that she will be able to do so?
Officer Clay Milton, who had been dispatched to Emily’s home to transport her to the medical center, begins assisting, as well. Although not a member of the department’s technology team, he exhibits knowledge about electronics and the way the explosive devices were built. He explains that he teaches robotics at a local charter high school on the weekends, and Emily and Javier welcome his ability to explain the technical details to them in a “non-nerd,” understandable manner.
Illusion of Truth proves that L’Etoile’s writing grows more impressive with each successive publication. It may well be his best book to date. The story’s even pace never drags, and he, like the fictional Officer Milton, injects enough technical information to make the story credible without boring readers who are, like Emily and Javier, “non-nerds.” Essentially, the bombs are constructed using circuit boards and operated remotely with a hand-held controller. They emit a high-pitched electronic whine before exploding. And explode they do. Repeatedly. The number of victims grows and includes a city council member and loud critic of the police department with higher political ambition who was attempting to broker a peace deal between the rival gangs; a gang leader; and even a pastor.
As Emily and Javier’s investigation proceeds, it grows tentacles and L’Etoile keeps readers in suspense as to how the various elements and players are connected. Eventually, their inquiry takes Emily and Javier to the home of a retired lieutenant whose career ended abruptly, the surrounding circumstances murky. He now resides in a rural part of nearby El Dorado County, an area in which State of Jefferson flags are commonplace. His home is an armed fortress. But is he the leader of a militia or hiding from one? Moreover, he was the commander of a SWAT team. And Brian was a member, as were several other officers whose names are discovered on a list and whomever is detonating the homemade bombs is writing messages on their components.
The collegial banter between Emily and Javier is humorous and affectionate, and provides brief and welcome respites from L’Etoile’s serious narrative. The dialogue accurately reflects the kind of good-natured joking that defuses the stress that real law enforcement professionals manage.
And L’Etoile explores Emily’s emotional turmoil, both about her mother’s deteriorating condition and her concern for Brian, who remains hospitalized. L’Etoile’s depiction of Brian’s struggle to come to terms with his injuries and condition is moving and believable. Having suffered a brain injury, it is unclear whether Brian will ever fully recover and his career in law enforcement may be over. If his recovery plateaus, will he be able to accept his limitations and a drastically different future than he envisioned before the attack? Emily worries about the same issues, from her perspective as the woman who loves Brian. Because she almost loses him, she appreciates the depth of her feelings for him and regrets telling him she was not ready for them to live together, but will she have a chance to tell him that?
A darker aspect of Emily’s emotional journey are the questions raised when the list of officers is discovered and includes Brian. She has to uncover its meaning, as well as whether any aspect of an incident that involved the SWAT team was covered up. If it was, who was responsible for hiding the truth? She hopes she will find that Brian bore no responsibility for or knowledge of any wrongdoing, but can’t help wondering what she will do if she learns that she doesn’t know Brian as well as she believed, prior to the attack, she did.
Illusion of Truth is another clearly conceived and flawlessly executed thriller that keeps readers guessing right up to the final revelations. L’Etoile’s plot is complex and imaginative, its intricacies revealed at well-timed junctures. He again populates the story with a supporting cast of fascinating characters, each with his or her own distinct purpose and motivations. He again examines contemporary issues through them, including the ongoing gang problems plaguing all large American cities, integrity in law enforcement, and the risks that officers encounter every day when they report for duty. Of course, the never-ending tug-of-war between police leadership and the politicians who control the city’s purse strings is a recurring theme, as well.
Thanks to the author for one paperback copy one electronic copy of the book via Edelweiss in conjunction with Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
January 19, 2026
Heart-pounding action and complex plot twists!
Illusion of Truth is the third book in author James L'Etoile's riveting Detective Emily Hunter Mystery series, and in this latest story, the tables are turned as Sacramento PD's finest become the target of a killer. When Emily's romantic partner, Sergeant Brian Conner, is severely injured in a targeted church bombing, her need for a swift and successful closure to the investigation is not only critical but personal. But as additional attacks on more officers and others continue, the clues seem to point to a vendetta against the particular officers themselves, and getting the answers she needs to find the bomber becomes harder and harder as one of their own is implicated.
Emily is such a relatable woman. With her mother in memory care and her having mixed feelings about merging households with her significant other while holding down a crucial, tension-filled job, you can't help but root for her the entire time. No wonder she's blunt. In her shoes, who would have time to play games or pussyfoot around? I love her dedication to her job, but I moan over her keeping her thoughts to herself and not letting Javier know what she's thinking when she's on the track of a solution, although I enjoy their usual rapport. I understand both her having second thoughts about taking this next step with Brian and his disappointment that she didn't jump for joy at his suggestion. Brian's story is tragic, fraught with the pain of the initial injury, recuperations, and rehabilitation, and his natural and realistic concerns for his future: one that may be much different from the one he'd planned. Even partner Javier is facing tough decisions about his future due to his growing relationship with Jenny, who has been offered a spectacular opportunity in Portland's larger media market.The plot is well-paced and suspenseful as Sacramento PD officers are being stalked, manipulated, and attacked. Just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, a new twist would literally grab the plot and drag it in another direction. Not only did the story make me jumpy, wondering when the next attack would come and whether it would be against Emily or Javier, but the action and clever redirection kept me glued to the pages for hours at a time. I didn't want to put the book down until I knew what the resolution would be. This latest book may be my favorite of the series so far.
I recommend ILLUSION OF TRUTH to fans of mysteries, thrillers, and suspenseful police procedurals.I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
January 11, 2026
Illusion of Truth: A Novel by James L’Etoile
The third book of the police procedural series that began with The Face of Greed delivers in every possible way for the reader. Illusion of Truth: A Novel begins a few months after River of Lies and starts with a bang.
The call out to a local church was a ploy to get police officers to respond. Allegedly, according to the caller to dispatch, there was some sort of disturbance involving a large crowd looting a church in North Sacramento. The church is located on the edge of the territory held by a certain gang though the church itself is supposed to be neutral territory and safe from all the gangs. For the several officers that responded to the scene, the place was anything but safe. Within minutes of their arrival, two separate improvised explosive devices are detonated.
Several officers are seriously injured in the blasts. That includes Sergent Brian Connor who recently asked Homicide Detective Emily Hunter to move in with him. She said she wasn’t ready. With his injuries now, she may never have the chance to change her mind.
Homicide Detective Emily Hunter is very used to getting the middle of the night call to go to a crime scene. This time the call is from a lieutenant who tells her to respond instead at the hospital. It was supposed to be his night off. Instead, Brian Connor is fighting for his life in the trauma unit.
Detective Hunter wants in on the investigation. One that is being led by her partner, Javier Medina. Not that he is not a good detective. He certainly is. But, she can’t just sit by. She is going to be involved, no matter what. Since that will happen anyway, her Lieutenant gives her the go ahead to work the case, but she has to follow Medina’s lead to the letter or she is benched. She agrees. Before long the case leads them in ways they never saw coming.
This third book in the police procedural series published by Oceanview Publishing is a good one. A read that could stand on its own if you are new to the series. But, those who choose to read the series in order will get far more out of the book.
One aspect of this series is the developing relationship between Hunter and Connor. So too is the evolving political scene as well as the fallout from earlier cases Hunter has worked. There are other aspects as well that continue to be developed and evolve. Those aspects are why this is a series that should be read in order.
Bottom Line---A very good read and strongly recommended.
My digital ARC came from the author with no expectation of a read or a review.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2026
The third book of the police procedural series that began with The Face of Greed delivers in every possible way for the reader. Illusion of Truth: A Novel begins a few months after River of Lies and starts with a bang.
The call out to a local church was a ploy to get police officers to respond. Allegedly, according to the caller to dispatch, there was some sort of disturbance involving a large crowd looting a church in North Sacramento. The church is located on the edge of the territory held by a certain gang though the church itself is supposed to be neutral territory and safe from all the gangs. For the several officers that responded to the scene, the place was anything but safe. Within minutes of their arrival, two separate improvised explosive devices are detonated.
Several officers are seriously injured in the blasts. That includes Sergent Brian Connor who recently asked Homicide Detective Emily Hunter to move in with him. She said she wasn’t ready. With his injuries now, she may never have the chance to change her mind.
Homicide Detective Emily Hunter is very used to getting the middle of the night call to go to a crime scene. This time the call is from a lieutenant who tells her to respond instead at the hospital. It was supposed to be his night off. Instead, Brian Connor is fighting for his life in the trauma unit.
Detective Hunter wants in on the investigation. One that is being led by her partner, Javier Medina. Not that he is not a good detective. He certainly is. But, she can’t just sit by. She is going to be involved, no matter what. Since that will happen anyway, her Lieutenant gives her the go ahead to work the case, but she has to follow Medina’s lead to the letter or she is benched. She agrees. Before long the case leads them in ways they never saw coming.
This third book in the police procedural series published by Oceanview Publishing is a good one. A read that could stand on its own if you are new to the series. But, those who choose to read the series in order will get far more out of the book.
One aspect of this series is the developing relationship between Hunter and Connor. So too is the evolving political scene as well as the fallout from earlier cases Hunter has worked. There are other aspects as well that continue to be developed and evolve. Those aspects are why this is a series that should be read in order.
Bottom Line---A very good read and strongly recommended.
My digital ARC came from the author with no expectation of a read or a review.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2026
November 29, 2025
Illusion of Truth by James L'Etoile is a very highly recommended procedural and mystery. This is the third novel featuring Detective Emily Hunter following Face of Greed and River of Lies. It can be enjoyed as a standalone procedural.
Two explosions hit the police officers who responded to a false report of a break-in at a church in Sacramento. Fellow cop and Detective Emily Hunter's boyfriend, Sergeant Brian Conner, is caught in the blast and is in serious condition. Emily and her partner Javier Medina are investigating when Officer Clay Milton determines that bomb components found at the scene can be traced to those in remote control cars. Soon another bomb targets more officers with a similar m.o. While Emily and Javier are trying to follow clues, City Councilman Rob Davis, is inciting antagonism and riots against the city’s police force. Emily must discover what incident from the past ties all the officers together and now makes them all a target.
During the tension from the high pressure investigation, Emily is also dealing with Brian's health struggles and her mother’s progressing Alzheimer’s. Emily and Brian's relationship was facing a hurdle before his serious injuries, which may change everything. At the same time Javier is also facing some challenges in his relationship with his girlfriend. These story lines don't detract from the main plot, but do add depth and realism to the characters, helping their development as individuals.
The pace is fast and the plot feels realistic in this well-written intricate procedural/mystery that feels like it could be ripped from headlines today. The political ramifications and involvement of various government departments along the way add credulity to the plot which is intricate, twisty and intelligent. The pressure and tension are unrelenting as the investigation unfolds.
Part of the plot is inferred in the title. Illusory truth is when repeated exposure to false information leads people to believe it is true, even when recognized as false. We can be more likely to believe something if we've heard it repeated multiple times. There are numerous examples of this in the news today where people set critical thinking and fact-checking aside.
Illusion of Truth is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a tension-packed procedural. Thanks to Oceanview Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...
Two explosions hit the police officers who responded to a false report of a break-in at a church in Sacramento. Fellow cop and Detective Emily Hunter's boyfriend, Sergeant Brian Conner, is caught in the blast and is in serious condition. Emily and her partner Javier Medina are investigating when Officer Clay Milton determines that bomb components found at the scene can be traced to those in remote control cars. Soon another bomb targets more officers with a similar m.o. While Emily and Javier are trying to follow clues, City Councilman Rob Davis, is inciting antagonism and riots against the city’s police force. Emily must discover what incident from the past ties all the officers together and now makes them all a target.
During the tension from the high pressure investigation, Emily is also dealing with Brian's health struggles and her mother’s progressing Alzheimer’s. Emily and Brian's relationship was facing a hurdle before his serious injuries, which may change everything. At the same time Javier is also facing some challenges in his relationship with his girlfriend. These story lines don't detract from the main plot, but do add depth and realism to the characters, helping their development as individuals.
The pace is fast and the plot feels realistic in this well-written intricate procedural/mystery that feels like it could be ripped from headlines today. The political ramifications and involvement of various government departments along the way add credulity to the plot which is intricate, twisty and intelligent. The pressure and tension are unrelenting as the investigation unfolds.
Part of the plot is inferred in the title. Illusory truth is when repeated exposure to false information leads people to believe it is true, even when recognized as false. We can be more likely to believe something if we've heard it repeated multiple times. There are numerous examples of this in the news today where people set critical thinking and fact-checking aside.
Illusion of Truth is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a tension-packed procedural. Thanks to Oceanview Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...
January 22, 2026
I absolutely adore this book! It has everything I enjoy in a police procedural: the crime and situations are relatable, timely, and relevant and the characters are well written and interesting. It is book 3 in the Detective Emily Hunter Mystery series but I read and enjoyed it as a standalone. I enjoyed it so much that I am going to go back and read the other books.
The crimes in this book and their impact on those involved and the community are all too realistic and the race to figure out who was doing it and why kept me turning the pages faster and faster. The way it incorporates politics, gangs, militia, anti-police sentiment, and technology is timely and more than a little frightening. The use of technology in the destruction is equal parts fascinating and scary and has me thinking about the potential of it happening in real life.
The characters and their relationships really make me love this book. Emily is a spectacular main character. She is multilayered and relatable as she is handling not only her own career and life but she is also dealing with her Mom and her illness. I like the way she thoughtfully puts the pieces together to figure out what is going on and how things are connected. The incident has her viewing her relationship with Brian in a new light and I can’t wait to see how it works in the future. Brian, the MMC, is dealing with his injuries and trying to figure out his future both with his career and Emily and his emotions and reactions make him relatable. The rest of the characters add depth to the story and the community
I want more and can’t wait for another book in the series. I highly recommend this book to readers that enjoy police procedurals with interesting, multilayered characters and relevant crimes.
Thanks to Partners In Crime VBT for the free book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The crimes in this book and their impact on those involved and the community are all too realistic and the race to figure out who was doing it and why kept me turning the pages faster and faster. The way it incorporates politics, gangs, militia, anti-police sentiment, and technology is timely and more than a little frightening. The use of technology in the destruction is equal parts fascinating and scary and has me thinking about the potential of it happening in real life.
The characters and their relationships really make me love this book. Emily is a spectacular main character. She is multilayered and relatable as she is handling not only her own career and life but she is also dealing with her Mom and her illness. I like the way she thoughtfully puts the pieces together to figure out what is going on and how things are connected. The incident has her viewing her relationship with Brian in a new light and I can’t wait to see how it works in the future. Brian, the MMC, is dealing with his injuries and trying to figure out his future both with his career and Emily and his emotions and reactions make him relatable. The rest of the characters add depth to the story and the community
I want more and can’t wait for another book in the series. I highly recommend this book to readers that enjoy police procedurals with interesting, multilayered characters and relevant crimes.
Thanks to Partners In Crime VBT for the free book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 29, 2026
The first book in this series is Face of Greed where we are introduced to Emily Hunter and Javier Medina, her partner. The second book is River of Lies. I am really enjoying this series.
In Illusion of Truth, Emily and Javier are faced with someone who is up to no good, but on the other hand is trying to get Emily’s attention.
Book three maintains the police procedural genre but also pulls in some unexpected actions by the apparent bad guy. Emily finds herself going down one road, only to be met with resistance from forces she wasn’t expecting. She wanted to find out the why behind the roadblocks she faced.
If you’ve read any of this series, you know that Emily does not give up. This is something I like about her character. I also like the fact that she faces everyday issues just like the rest of us – a mom with dementia; a relationship she wants to take to the next level but isn’t sure how or if it would be a mistake; a cat that appears at her door seemingly uninvited. I also like the banter that has continued between Emily and Javier, makes me chuckle at their interactions, even in the most serious of situations.
This is one of the better police procedural series I’ve had the opportunity to read. I like the real-life feeling the author is able to incorporate into his stories, the humanness that is captured with all that Emily (and even Javier with his own relationship issues) deals with on a day-to-day basis. These tidbits make the characters more relatable, at least to me. I look forward to more of this series.
In Illusion of Truth, Emily and Javier are faced with someone who is up to no good, but on the other hand is trying to get Emily’s attention.
Book three maintains the police procedural genre but also pulls in some unexpected actions by the apparent bad guy. Emily finds herself going down one road, only to be met with resistance from forces she wasn’t expecting. She wanted to find out the why behind the roadblocks she faced.
If you’ve read any of this series, you know that Emily does not give up. This is something I like about her character. I also like the fact that she faces everyday issues just like the rest of us – a mom with dementia; a relationship she wants to take to the next level but isn’t sure how or if it would be a mistake; a cat that appears at her door seemingly uninvited. I also like the banter that has continued between Emily and Javier, makes me chuckle at their interactions, even in the most serious of situations.
This is one of the better police procedural series I’ve had the opportunity to read. I like the real-life feeling the author is able to incorporate into his stories, the humanness that is captured with all that Emily (and even Javier with his own relationship issues) deals with on a day-to-day basis. These tidbits make the characters more relatable, at least to me. I look forward to more of this series.
January 7, 2026
This is the third book in the author’s trilogy featuring Emily Hunter, a detective with the Sacramento PD. While you don’t need to read the first two books, you may find yourself wishing you had. The characters don’t seem to be fully developed enough for readers to engage with them because the author seems to believe that readers picking up this book will have read the first two books so there was no need to give them a backstory or to make them likable.
For the first half of the book, the author sets a fast pace, but then seems to run out of steam and/or couldn’t figure out how to make this into a full novel instead of a novella, and the book suffers because of it. When the book begins to sag, many readers may set it aside and go to another book that will hold their interest.
There are enough twists and turns, and dare I say it, a red herring, to keep the first half of the book interesting. Readers may assume the red herring was thrown into the mix to try to keep readers engaged.
The ending was mediocre at best because it ended the book abruptly as if the author had simply run out of words. This book would have benefitted from an experienced editor who could have helped the author shore up the book when it began sagging, fixed awkwardly worded sentences, and even have caught missing words and misused words that a spellchecker missed.
My thanks to Oceanview Publishing and Edelweiss for an eARC.
For the first half of the book, the author sets a fast pace, but then seems to run out of steam and/or couldn’t figure out how to make this into a full novel instead of a novella, and the book suffers because of it. When the book begins to sag, many readers may set it aside and go to another book that will hold their interest.
There are enough twists and turns, and dare I say it, a red herring, to keep the first half of the book interesting. Readers may assume the red herring was thrown into the mix to try to keep readers engaged.
The ending was mediocre at best because it ended the book abruptly as if the author had simply run out of words. This book would have benefitted from an experienced editor who could have helped the author shore up the book when it began sagging, fixed awkwardly worded sentences, and even have caught missing words and misused words that a spellchecker missed.
My thanks to Oceanview Publishing and Edelweiss for an eARC.
January 14, 2026
MY THOUGHTS -
James L’Etoile really knows what he’s doing. He has a way of making all the pieces come together so that everything just clicks, just like trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle.
Brian, Javier, and Emily are back, and they’re just as good as ever. I especially love Emily, of course. I just really connect with her. She’s strong, smart, and determined, a little bit snarky, but also very human. When the people she loves are hurt, you really feel it right along with her.
These bombs, intense! This book starts off with a bang and never really lets up. The suspense just keeps building as the story goes on, making it hard to put down. I even ended up reading it during a Steelers playoff game — and honestly, it kept me way more entertained than the commercials. When the Steelers lost, I was glad I had this book to fall back on.
If you follow this author, you’ll appreciate the fun little references (including "not-my-cat" and the corgi). I stayed up past my bedtime to finish this one, which tells you everything you need to know. A fast, suspenseful, and really enjoyable read. And... the ending - perfect!
James L’Etoile has definitely become one of my go-to authors.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving an e-copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours. Thank You!
James L’Etoile really knows what he’s doing. He has a way of making all the pieces come together so that everything just clicks, just like trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle.
Brian, Javier, and Emily are back, and they’re just as good as ever. I especially love Emily, of course. I just really connect with her. She’s strong, smart, and determined, a little bit snarky, but also very human. When the people she loves are hurt, you really feel it right along with her.
These bombs, intense! This book starts off with a bang and never really lets up. The suspense just keeps building as the story goes on, making it hard to put down. I even ended up reading it during a Steelers playoff game — and honestly, it kept me way more entertained than the commercials. When the Steelers lost, I was glad I had this book to fall back on.
If you follow this author, you’ll appreciate the fun little references (including "not-my-cat" and the corgi). I stayed up past my bedtime to finish this one, which tells you everything you need to know. A fast, suspenseful, and really enjoyable read. And... the ending - perfect!
James L’Etoile has definitely become one of my go-to authors.
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving an e-copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours. Thank You!
January 8, 2026
Illusion of Truth by James E’Toille is a gripping crime thriller that moves at a breakneck pace. It kicks off with a troubling call to the Sacramento police reporting a large crowd gathered near a church, which turns out to be a hoax. But what happens next is far more perilous.
When the officers show up, a massive explosion tears through the church entrance, followed by more blasts. Several police officers are left critically injured, setting a serious tone for the ensuing investigation. Detective Emily Hunter and her partner step in to take charge. Every clue they uncover raises fresh questions, and with each suspect, more doubt creeps in.
The narrative zips along without losing its focus, with suspicion shifting in unexpected directions, even up to the higher-ups. This keeps readers on their toes, constantly guessing. The author does a fantastic job of pacing, building tension piece by piece, making every twist in the plot feel intentional.
The ending catches you off guard but feels well-deserved, reshaping the way you view all the events leading up to it. In short, this is a captivating crime novel that grabs you from the start and keeps you hooked right through to the last page.
Thank you, Edelweiss, for sharing an advance copy of the book for review.
When the officers show up, a massive explosion tears through the church entrance, followed by more blasts. Several police officers are left critically injured, setting a serious tone for the ensuing investigation. Detective Emily Hunter and her partner step in to take charge. Every clue they uncover raises fresh questions, and with each suspect, more doubt creeps in.
The narrative zips along without losing its focus, with suspicion shifting in unexpected directions, even up to the higher-ups. This keeps readers on their toes, constantly guessing. The author does a fantastic job of pacing, building tension piece by piece, making every twist in the plot feel intentional.
The ending catches you off guard but feels well-deserved, reshaping the way you view all the events leading up to it. In short, this is a captivating crime novel that grabs you from the start and keeps you hooked right through to the last page.
Thank you, Edelweiss, for sharing an advance copy of the book for review.
January 11, 2026
Illusion of Truth is book three in the Detective Emily Hunter series that is written by James L'Etoile. I have read all the books in the series, but you can read them individually. The author does a great job in filling in the gaps and backgrounds. This book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
There is a series of explosions that rock Sacramento. Emily's boyfriend, Sargent Brian Conner is injured in one. Emily and her boss, do not think these are isolated incidents, but the mayor insists that they are. Emily being the badass detective that she is, will stop at nothing to find out who is behind this.
With true L'Etoile fashion, there are a lot of twists and turns. You will think you have it figured out, then boom - everything shifts. I loved that there were multiple threads going on within the book - not only is there the bombings, but Emily's mother who has dementia is declining.
This book is well written, and the storyline is engaging. The story moves at a fast pace, but you will not have an issue keeping up. There is deep character development and I loved seeing my favorite Detectives again and catching up.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Partners in Crime Book Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
There is a series of explosions that rock Sacramento. Emily's boyfriend, Sargent Brian Conner is injured in one. Emily and her boss, do not think these are isolated incidents, but the mayor insists that they are. Emily being the badass detective that she is, will stop at nothing to find out who is behind this.
With true L'Etoile fashion, there are a lot of twists and turns. You will think you have it figured out, then boom - everything shifts. I loved that there were multiple threads going on within the book - not only is there the bombings, but Emily's mother who has dementia is declining.
This book is well written, and the storyline is engaging. The story moves at a fast pace, but you will not have an issue keeping up. There is deep character development and I loved seeing my favorite Detectives again and catching up.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Partners in Crime Book Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.
November 16, 2025
Thanks to Ocean view publishing for providing me an advance review copy of this novel. I think this is my first exposure to James' series of Emily Hunter. And it was a very favourable one!
I loved the story and the characters - especially Emily and Javier - the personality details even though this is the third book in the series, it gave me enough to imagine them in real life. The plot moves pretty fast and draws you in from the initial pages itself. The plot winds itself through the serious bombing thread and also the related romantic thread with Emily and Brian and also her personal strain with her mother's health. These are all handled very well without being overly focused and distracting - but helping build the reader's understanding of the character.
Without giving away any clues, I was able to spot the potential mastermind a bit early. But it was very interesting to see how that person and the other persons involved were revealed to be all connected to the events. Thankfully there were no last page surprises! The plot eventually made sense and plausible
A good crime thriller and well worth spending your time!
I loved the story and the characters - especially Emily and Javier - the personality details even though this is the third book in the series, it gave me enough to imagine them in real life. The plot moves pretty fast and draws you in from the initial pages itself. The plot winds itself through the serious bombing thread and also the related romantic thread with Emily and Brian and also her personal strain with her mother's health. These are all handled very well without being overly focused and distracting - but helping build the reader's understanding of the character.
Without giving away any clues, I was able to spot the potential mastermind a bit early. But it was very interesting to see how that person and the other persons involved were revealed to be all connected to the events. Thankfully there were no last page surprises! The plot eventually made sense and plausible
A good crime thriller and well worth spending your time!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This is another good police procedure featuring Detective Emily Hunter as a strong female character. This novel has more of the personal events and feelings in her life as her boyfriend, also a detective, is severely injured in a bombing. The mystery revolves around finding out who seems to have a vendetta against a particular group of police officers.
The plot moves well with further attacks. Emily works hard on the case, since her boyfriend was involved. There was a date on some bomb fragments and one thing I do not understand is why that date was not investigated for way too long. A search of news headlines would have turned up the crucial event way earlier than what the investigation found.
The plot gets quite complicated near the end with lots of twists and red herrings. I have liked this series and will be waiting for the next one.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The plot moves well with further attacks. Emily works hard on the case, since her boyfriend was involved. There was a date on some bomb fragments and one thing I do not understand is why that date was not investigated for way too long. A search of news headlines would have turned up the crucial event way earlier than what the investigation found.
The plot gets quite complicated near the end with lots of twists and red herrings. I have liked this series and will be waiting for the next one.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
January 21, 2026
In Illusion of Truth, the third in the Detective Emily Hunter mystery series, author James L'Etoile continues the story of Emily Hunter in a crime spree that affects Emily—and someone she loves—directly. One of the things I like best about this series is that Emily, like so many people, is juggling an aging mother with dementia, a budding romantic relationship, and her emotionally and physically grueling work as a Sacramento, California, police detective.
When lured to a targeted attack on a church, her boyfriend, Brian, sustains multiple injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. Wanting to catch those who hurt him, Emily persists in investigating, despite being too close to be objective.
L'Etoile uses years of experience within the criminal justice system to provide verisimilitude to the story. The presumed "bad guy" switches dramatically from moment to moment as Emily relies on instinct to help her piece together clues into a coherent picture. Though the cast of major characters in the three books remains the same, Illusion of Truth can be read as a standalone, but I've enjoyed seeing the progression of Emily's character and the relationships in her life by reading the novels sequentially.
When lured to a targeted attack on a church, her boyfriend, Brian, sustains multiple injuries, including a traumatic brain injury. Wanting to catch those who hurt him, Emily persists in investigating, despite being too close to be objective.
L'Etoile uses years of experience within the criminal justice system to provide verisimilitude to the story. The presumed "bad guy" switches dramatically from moment to moment as Emily relies on instinct to help her piece together clues into a coherent picture. Though the cast of major characters in the three books remains the same, Illusion of Truth can be read as a standalone, but I've enjoyed seeing the progression of Emily's character and the relationships in her life by reading the novels sequentially.
February 28, 2026
This is a very good, fast moving thriller with an almost never ending trail to the villain set in recent times Sacramento. What appears to be a routine call for a disturbance at a church turns into an ambush for the responding police units with no fatalities but serious injuries. Over the course of the next few days, this scene plays out several times with similar results. The scramble to solve these crimes falls to veteran Detective Emily Hunter, whose boyfriend was seriously hurt in the first incident. After initial confusion, the trail focuses on a man who lost his family in a robbery at a local Sacramento convenience store four years ago. Or is it? The story takes many twists and turns and the ultimate villain is very close in hand.
December 9, 2025
This is the third in a series tracking Sacramento Detective Emily Hunter. As a reader of exciting police procedurals, I have some back tracking to do to learn her history. This one begins with a vicious church bombing that targets some of the police summoned to the scene. One of them is Emily’s cop boyfriend. So, the stakes are raised even higher for her – now she is personally and professionally involved to find the perpetrators. Her path puts her in the crosshairs of politics, the media, the local community, and her department as she garners clues to try and stop the next incident. Highly recommended. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for providing this title.
January 14, 2026
This is absolutely fun and full of action from start to finish.
I adore our Detective Emily Hunter, and while this book does
revolve around some sad events affecting the Police, and
Emily, personally, it's got a lot of good throughout and I am
happy with what were left with until book 4 hits.
The Author has an intimate understanding of policing and
he does a great job highlighting the locales in the greater
Sacramento / El Dorado Hills area. For a "semi-native,
it was a nice bit of reminiscing. I enjoy the writing style.
For the folks who enjoy high energy Police procedural
stories, this is one of the best!
I adore our Detective Emily Hunter, and while this book does
revolve around some sad events affecting the Police, and
Emily, personally, it's got a lot of good throughout and I am
happy with what were left with until book 4 hits.
The Author has an intimate understanding of policing and
he does a great job highlighting the locales in the greater
Sacramento / El Dorado Hills area. For a "semi-native,
it was a nice bit of reminiscing. I enjoy the writing style.
For the folks who enjoy high energy Police procedural
stories, this is one of the best!
January 25, 2026
This story is filled with crime,and tension on every page keeps you turning to see what's actually going to happen, who the bad guy is why this is happening in this town. And why this began at the church.
Gang members. Criminals of every kind.
This was a good book.
This was the third book in the series.
I didn't read the first two, but I feel like this was a great story even for not reading those first two.
This author writes an incredible story that holds your attention. Throughout the book.
The characters are absolutely phenomenal.I enjoyed the story immensely.
Gang members. Criminals of every kind.
This was a good book.
This was the third book in the series.
I didn't read the first two, but I feel like this was a great story even for not reading those first two.
This author writes an incredible story that holds your attention. Throughout the book.
The characters are absolutely phenomenal.I enjoyed the story immensely.
March 29, 2026
The relationship between main characters Emily Hunter and Brian Conner continues in this the third book in the series. The story moves along quickly combining political intrigue with drama. The author combines his knowledge of California’s law enforcement system with an array of great characters to create a fast-moving story that holds your attention and leaves you waiting for the next installment.
January 25, 2026
Another must read this spring. This is his 3rd Detective Emily Hunter mystery. I am ready for the next one. Just when I thought I had figured it out, a twist pops up. His characters are steady and well developed. While you feel some of the politics of law enforcement, the storyline shows he writes with his experience of criminals.
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